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. Fatigue. Fatigue can be a common symptom of various health conditions, including heart disease, and is not specific to pacemaker malfunction.
B. Rapid pulse. A rapid pulse or palpitations may signal a malfunction where the pacemaker is pacing too quickly or erratically.
C. Increased urine output. Increased urine output is not related to pacemaker function and does not indicate a malfunction.
D. Sneezing. Sneezing is unrelated to pacemaker malfunction and does not warrant provider notification.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Overweight. While weight can affect medication metabolism, it does not specifically increase risk with pseudoephedrine.
B. Migraine headaches. Migraine headaches are not contraindicated with pseudoephedrine, although some stimulants can increase headaches.
C. Eczema. Pseudoephedrine does not typically affect eczema.
D. Hypertension. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that can increase blood pressure, so it should be used with caution in clients with hypertension.