What should a nurse prioritize for a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is experiencing an exacerbation?

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Question 1 of 5

What should a nurse prioritize for a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is experiencing an exacerbation?

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.

Question 2 of 5

What should the nurse do if a client experiences an allergic reaction to a medication?

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.

Question 3 of 5

What is the primary action when a client with a history of asthma develops wheezing?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer bronchodilators. When a client with asthma develops wheezing, the primary action is to administer bronchodilators to help dilate the airways and improve breathing. This helps relieve the symptoms of wheezing and prevent further complications. Providing pain relief (Choice B) is not the primary action for wheezing in asthma. Encouraging deep breathing (Choice C) may worsen the wheezing in an asthma attack. Performing chest physiotherapy (Choice D) is not the first-line treatment for wheezing in asthma.

Question 4 of 5

What is the most important priority for a nurse caring for a client with pneumonia?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Administer diuretics. The priority for a nurse caring for a client with pneumonia is to maintain adequate oxygenation and prevent respiratory failure. Diuretics help reduce fluid overload in the lungs, improving gas exchange and oxygenation. Administering antibiotics (choice A) is important to treat the infection but not the top priority. Administering oxygen (choice B) is crucial for oxygenation, but diuretics take precedence to improve lung function. Administering corticosteroids (choice C) may be considered in certain cases to reduce inflammation, but it is not the primary priority.

Question 5 of 5

What is the priority nursing action for a client who is receiving blood transfusion and develops a fever?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Stop the transfusion - Febrile reaction can indicate a transfusion reaction, so stopping the transfusion is crucial. Step 2: Administer antipyretics - To reduce fever and prevent further complications. Step 3: Assess for other signs of transfusion reaction - Such as chills, rash, or hypotension. Summary: Option A is correct as it addresses the immediate need to stop the transfusion and manage the fever. Options B, C, and D do not prioritize stopping the transfusion, which is crucial in this scenario.

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