What is the priority nursing intervention for a client with shortness of breath and wheezing?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer bronchodilators. Bronchodilators help dilate the airways, relieving bronchospasm and improving airflow in clients experiencing shortness of breath and wheezing. This intervention directly addresses the underlying cause of the symptoms. Administering corticosteroids (B) may be considered in severe cases to reduce inflammation but is not the priority initial intervention. Administering pain relief (C) is not indicated unless pain is identified as a contributing factor. Placing the client in a sitting position (D) can help improve breathing but does not directly address the bronchoconstriction causing the wheezing.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Apply a traction splint. The priority for a client with a fractured femur is to immobilize the fracture to prevent further injury and reduce pain. Applying a traction splint helps stabilize the fracture and reduce risk of complications such as nerve or blood vessel damage. Administering pain medication (B) is important but not the priority. Placing the client in a supine position (C) may be needed for comfort but does not address the primary concern of stabilizing the fracture. Administering IV antibiotics (D) is not necessary for a fractured femur unless there are signs of infection.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer bronchodilators. The first step in managing an asthma attack is to address the underlying cause, which is airway constriction. Bronchodilators help relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier for the client to breathe. Providing oxygen therapy (B) can be helpful but addressing airway constriction is the priority. Administering analgesics (C) or pain medication (D) is not appropriate as asthma attacks are not typically associated with pain.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer thrombolytics. Thrombolytics help dissolve blood clots causing the stroke, restoring blood flow to the brain. This intervention is time-sensitive to prevent further brain damage. Administering aspirin (B) is important but not the priority over thrombolytics. Performing an ECG (C) assesses heart function, not the immediate intervention for stroke. Administering corticosteroids (D) is not indicated in acute stroke management.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer IV fluids. This is the priority intervention because severe dehydration requires immediate fluid replacement to restore fluid balance and prevent further complications. IV fluids are the most rapid and effective way to rehydrate a severely dehydrated client. Monitoring vital signs (B) and blood pressure (D) are important, but administering IV fluids takes precedence. Encouraging oral fluids (C) may not be sufficient for a client with severe dehydration who may not be able to adequately absorb fluids orally.