A nurse is administering furosemide 80 mg PO twice daily to a client who has pulmonary edema. Which of the following assessment findings indicates to the nurse that the medication is effective?
Elevation in blood pressure
Respiratory rate of 24/min
Adventitious breath sounds
Weight loss of 1.8 kg (4 lb) in the past 24 hr
The Correct Answer is D
A) Elevation in blood pressure: An elevation in blood pressure is not an indicator of the effectiveness of furosemide. In fact, effective diuresis would typically lead to a reduction in blood pressure, especially in cases of pulmonary edema related to heart failure.
B) Respiratory rate of 24/min: A respiratory rate of 24/min indicates tachypnea, which is often associated with respiratory distress or ongoing pulmonary congestion. This finding does not suggest that the furosemide is effective; instead, it may indicate that further intervention is needed.
C) Adventitious breath sounds: The presence of adventitious breath sounds, such as wheezing or crackles, suggests ongoing fluid accumulation in the lungs and is not an indicator of effective diuresis. Effective treatment should lead to clearer breath sounds as fluid is removed.
D) Weight loss of 1.8 kg (4 lb) in the past 24 hr: This finding is a strong indicator of the effectiveness of furosemide. A significant weight loss, especially in a client with pulmonary edema, reflects a reduction in fluid overload. Since furosemide works by promoting diuresis, this weight loss suggests that the medication is effectively reducing excess fluid in the body.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Pain level: While assessing pain is important, it is not the immediate priority in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Pain management can be addressed once the client's vital signs and respiratory status are stable.
B) Surgical site: Evaluating the surgical site is necessary to check for complications such as bleeding or infection, but it comes after ensuring the client’s vital functions, particularly their breathing, are stable.
C) Level of consciousness: Assessing the level of consciousness is essential for determining neurological status. However, it is secondary to ensuring the airway and breathing are adequate, as these are critical for survival.
D) Respiratory status: This is the priority assessment in the PACU. Following anesthesia, clients are at significant risk for respiratory complications, including hypoventilation or airway obstruction. Ensuring that the client is breathing adequately and that their airway is clear is the most critical assessment for immediate safety.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Diphenhydramine: This is an antihistamine primarily used to treat allergies and as a sedative. It is not indicated for reversing opioid-induced respiratory depression and could potentially worsen the sedation.
Flumazenil: This medication is a benzodiazepine antagonist and is used to reverse the effects of benzodiazepines. It is not effective for opioid overdose or respiratory depression caused by morphine.
Naloxone: Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose, including respiratory depression. In cases of opioid-induced respiratory depression, naloxone is the appropriate medication to administer to restore normal respiratory function.
Calcium gluconate: This medication is used for conditions such as hypocalcemia or magnesium toxicity, but it is not relevant for opioid overdose or respiratory depression.