A nurse is assisting with the care of a client in the emergency department and reports severe radiating chest pain and shortness of breath. The client appears restless, frightened, and slightly cyanotic. The provider prescribes oxygen by nasal cannula at 4 L/min stat, cardiac enzyme levels, IV fluids, and a 12-lead ECG. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Obtain a blood sample.
Initiate oxygen therapy.
Attach the leads for a 12-lead ECG.
Insert the IV catheter.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Obtain a blood sample. Although obtaining a blood sample is essential for cardiac enzyme levels, it is not the highest priority. Addressing oxygenation takes precedence to relieve hypoxia.
B. Initiate oxygen therapy. Oxygen is the first priority to improve oxygenation in a client showing signs of hypoxia (cyanosis, dyspnea), which can prevent further ischemic damage to the heart.
C. Attach the leads for a 12-lead ECG. While obtaining an ECG is essential for diagnosing myocardial ischemia, ensuring oxygenation is more critical in this moment.
D. Insert the IV catheter. An IV line is necessary to administer fluids and medications, but oxygenation should be prioritized first to stabilize the client.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Swelling of the lower extremity can create a wound that is difficult to heal. Swelling typically relates to venous ulcers, not arterial ulcers, which are caused by reduced blood flow.
B. Decreased blood flow to the area can cause the wound and decrease the healing. Peripheral artery disease causes decreased blood flow, leading to poor oxygenation and slow healing of arterial ulcers.
C. Lower extremity compression stockings likely caused the wound to occur. Compression stockings are used in venous insufficiency and do not cause arterial ulcers.
D. Increased blood sugar associated with the condition is likely the cause of the wound not healing. While high blood sugar can impair healing, decreased blood flow is the primary cause of arterial ulcers in PAD.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Cerebral blood flow. MAP is crucial for maintaining adequate cerebral perfusion pressure, ensuring enough blood flow to the brain.
B. The client's intake and output needs. MAP does not directly influence intake and output needs; it is more directly related to blood flow and tissue perfusion.
C. Regulation of blood pressure. MAP is a measure of average blood pressure but not a regulator of it.
D. Resorption of cerebrospinal fluid. CSF resorption is not directly influenced by MAP; it’s regulated by intracranial pressure and other factors.