A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who was admitted to the postpartum unit. The client is diaphoretic, skin is clammy, pulse is rapid and strong, respirations are shallow. The client reports headache, nausea, and feeling weak.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Administer oxygen.
Offer an ice pack.
Provide a warm blanket.
Elevate the client’s legs.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Administering oxygen may help with symptoms like headache and weakness, but it does not address the underlying issue of poor circulation and potential shock. Elevating the legs is more effective in improving blood flow to vital organs.
Choice B rationale
Offering an ice pack is not appropriate for the symptoms described. The client is showing signs of shock, and an ice pack would not address the underlying issue.
Choice C rationale
Providing a warm blanket may offer comfort, but it does not address the symptoms of shock. Elevating the legs is a more direct intervention to improve circulation and stabilize the client.
Choice D rationale
Elevating the client’s legs helps improve venous return to the heart, increasing cardiac output and stabilizing blood pressure. This is a critical intervention for a client showing signs of shock.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Lying in a left side-lying position for 30 minutes after meals can help reduce heartburn symptoms by preventing stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. However, it is not the most effective recommendation for managing heartburn during pregnancy.
Choice B rationale
Taking sips of milk between meals can help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn. Milk can act as a buffer, reducing the acidity in the stomach and alleviating discomfort.
Choice C rationale
Eating three large meals per day can exacerbate heartburn symptoms by increasing the amount of stomach acid produced. Smaller, more frequent meals are recommended to help manage heartburn during pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
Drinking a cup of black coffee before breakfast can worsen heartburn symptoms due to its acidic nature and caffeine content. It is not recommended for individuals experiencing frequent heartburn, especially during pregnancy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Serum bilirubin is not the priority test for hyperemesis gravidarum. It is more relevant for assessing liver function and jaundice.
Choice B rationale
Liver enzymes may be elevated in hyperemesis gravidarum, but they are not the priority test. The primary concern is dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Choice C rationale
A CBC can provide information on the client’s overall health, but it is not the priority test for hyperemesis gravidarum. The focus should be on assessing hydration status.
Choice D rationale
Urinalysis for ketones is the priority test because it helps assess the severity of dehydration and malnutrition. The presence of ketones indicates that the body is breaking down fat for energy, which is a sign of inadequate caloric intake.