What is the priority intervention for a client who is experiencing an acute asthma attack?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer bronchodilators. During an acute asthma attack, the priority intervention is to immediately open the airways to improve breathing. Bronchodilators, such as albuterol, work rapidly to dilate the bronchioles and relieve bronchospasms, making it the most effective initial treatment. Corticosteroids (B) are used for long-term control, not immediate relief. Applying oxygen and administering albuterol (C) is close, but bronchodilators should be given first for quicker relief. Applying a cold compress (D) is not appropriate for managing an asthma attack.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assess vital signs. This is the first intervention because it provides immediate information on the client's condition and helps determine the severity of the pain. Monitoring vital signs can reveal signs of shock, dehydration, or other serious complications. Performing a CT scan (B) is not the first priority as it requires time and resources. Monitoring urine output (C) may be important but not as immediate as assessing vital signs. Monitoring for signs of shock (D) can be included in assessing vital signs but is not the primary intervention.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B - Administer oxygen Rationale: 1. Oxygen therapy is crucial in managing COPD exacerbation to improve oxygen saturation levels. 2. Adequate oxygenation is essential to prevent further respiratory distress and potential complications. 3. Oxygen therapy helps alleviate symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue, improving overall comfort. 4. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels guides the effectiveness of treatment and ensures appropriate oxygen delivery. Summary: - Administering corticosteroids (A) may help reduce inflammation in COPD exacerbation but does not address the immediate need for oxygen. - Monitoring respiratory rate (C) is important but prioritizing oxygen administration is more critical for immediate respiratory support. - Administering diuretics (D) may be indicated in certain cases of COPD exacerbation with fluid retention but is not the priority over oxygen therapy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct action is to administer IV fluids when a client's blood pressure drops significantly. This helps increase blood volume and improve circulation, stabilizing the blood pressure. Administering pain medication (B) does not address the root cause of low blood pressure. Applying a heating pad (C) is not effective in treating low blood pressure. Monitoring the client's respiratory rate (D) is important but not the immediate action needed to address a significant drop in blood pressure.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The proper hand position for chest percussion is to cup the hands, creating a hollow space to allow for effective transmission of percussion vibrations. Cupping the hands helps to produce the desired percussion sound and ensures proper force distribution. Using the side of the hands (B) may not provide enough surface area for effective percussion. Flattening the hands (C) may not generate the desired percussive effect, and spreading the fingers of both hands (D) can result in uneven force application. Therefore, cupping the hands is the most appropriate hand position for chest percussion.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because when a client experiences an allergic reaction to a medication, the nurse should monitor for signs of infection as allergic reactions can sometimes lead to secondary infections. By closely monitoring the client for signs of infection, the nurse can promptly intervene and provide appropriate treatment. A: Discontinuing the medication is important but not the immediate priority when dealing with an allergic reaction. B: Notifying the healthcare provider is important, but monitoring for signs of infection takes precedence in this situation. C: Administering antihistamines may help with allergic symptoms but does not address the potential risk of secondary infection.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Open the airway. This is the first intervention because ensuring a clear airway is crucial for adequate oxygenation. If the airway is obstructed, oxygen administered or suctioning performed may not be effective. Checking for breathing should follow airway opening. Administering oxygen can be done once the airway is established. Suctioning is not the priority unless there is evidence of airway obstruction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because health assessment helps establish a baseline database for comparison in future assessments, allowing for tracking of changes in health status over time. It provides essential information for identifying health issues and developing appropriate interventions. Choice B is incorrect as establishing rapport is a benefit but not the primary purpose. Choice C is incorrect as health assessment is typically conducted by primary healthcare providers, not specialists. Choice D is incorrect as quantifying pain is just one aspect of health assessment, not its primary purpose.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer IV fluids. In the case of shock, the first priority is to restore circulating volume to improve tissue perfusion. IV fluids help increase blood volume and improve oxygen delivery to vital organs, addressing the underlying cause of shock. Choice B (Administer oxygen) can be important but is not the first priority. Choice C (Place the client in a supine position) may worsen certain types of shock. Choice D (Monitor blood pressure) is important but not the first action needed to address shock. Administering IV fluids promptly can stabilize the client's condition and prevent further deterioration.