A nurse is attending a social event when another guest coughs weakly once, grasps his throat with his hands, and cannot talk. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Perform the Heimlich maneuver.
Slap the client on the back several times.
Assist the client to the floor and begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
Observe the client before taking further action.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
The Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is the recommended first aid technique for a conscious person who is choking. This maneuver helps to expel the object blocking the airway by using the air remaining in the lungs to force it out. The nurse should stand behind the person, place their arms around the person’s waist, make a fist with one hand, and place it just above the navel. The other hand should grasp the fist, and quick, upward thrusts should be performed until the object is expelled.
Choice B reason:
Slapping the client on the back several times is not the recommended first action for a conscious adult who is choking. While back blows can be effective, they are typically used in combination with abdominal thrusts and are more commonly recommended for infants. For adults, the Heimlich maneuver is preferred as the initial response.
Choice C reason:
Assisting the client to the floor and beginning mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is not appropriate for a conscious person who is choking. Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, or rescue breathing, is used when a person is not breathing and is unresponsive. In this scenario, the client is conscious but unable to speak, indicating a blocked airway that requires the Heimlich maneuver.
Choice D reason:
Observing the client before taking further action is not advisable in a choking emergency. Immediate intervention is crucial to prevent the situation from worsening. If the person is unable to speak, cough, or breathe, the Heimlich maneuver should be performed without delay.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Take naproxen for generalized discomfort
Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help with generalized discomfort. However, NSAIDs can cause fluid retention and worsen heart failure symptoms. They can also increase the risk of kidney damage and gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in individuals with heart failure. Therefore, it is generally advised to avoid NSAIDs and use alternative pain relief methods, such as acetaminophen, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Choice B: Notify the provider of a weight gain of 0.5 kg (1 lb) in a week
Monitoring weight is crucial for individuals with heart failure, as sudden weight gain can indicate fluid retention and worsening heart failure. A weight gain of 0.5 kg (1 lb) in a week is significant and should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately. This allows for timely intervention to adjust medications or other treatments to prevent further complications. Regular weight monitoring helps in early detection of fluid buildup and effective management of heart failure.
Choice C: Take diuretics early in the morning and before bedtime
Diuretics are commonly prescribed to help reduce fluid buildup in individuals with heart failure. However, taking diuretics before bedtime can lead to frequent nighttime urination, disrupting sleep. It is generally recommended to take diuretics early in the morning to minimize this issue. If a second dose is needed, it should be taken in the early afternoon to avoid nighttime disturbances.
Choice D: Exercise at least three times per week
Regular exercise is beneficial for individuals with heart failure as it helps improve cardiovascular health, increase stamina, and reduce symptoms. However, the exercise regimen should be tailored to the individual’s condition and capabilities. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to develop a safe and effective exercise plan. Cardiac rehabilitation programs can also provide structured exercise guidance and support.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Distorted perceptual field is more commonly associated with severe anxiety or panic attacks rather than moderate anxiety. In severe anxiety, a person’s ability to perceive reality can be significantly impaired, leading to distorted perceptions and an inability to focus.
Choice B reason:
Urinary frequency can be a symptom of anxiety, but it is not specifically indicative of moderate anxiety. It can occur in various levels of anxiety, including mild, moderate, and severe. However, it is not as prominent a symptom as others like rapid speech or restlessness.
Choice C reason:
Rapid speech is a common symptom of moderate anxiety. Individuals with moderate anxiety often exhibit signs of increased nervousness and agitation, which can manifest as rapid or pressured speech. This symptom reflects the heightened state of arousal and the difficulty in controlling anxious thoughts.
