A patient with a history of COPD Is being monitored for potential complications. Which of the following findings should the nurse report immediately as it may indicate the development of a complication?
Mild wheezing
Fatigue and general malaise
Increased sputum production
Sudden onset chest pain and dyspnea
The Correct Answer is D
A. Mild wheezing: Mild wheezing can be a common symptom in COPD and does not immediately indicate a severe complication unless it worsens suddenly.
B. Fatigue and general malaise: Fatigue and malaise are often chronic in COPD and do not necessarily indicate an acute complication.
C. Increased sputum production: While increased sputum could suggest an infection, it is not the most urgent sign of a severe complication.
D. Sudden onset chest pain and dyspnea: Sudden chest pain and dyspnea are concerning for a pneumothorax or pulmonary embolism, both of which are potential complications in COPD and require immediate attention.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Use written communication or visual aids to supplement verbal instructions. Written communication and visual aids are effective ways to enhance understanding and provide clear instructions to a patient with hearing loss.
B. Speak loudly and directly into the patient's ear. Speaking loudly can distort sounds and may make it harder for the patient to understand. Instead, clear and slow speech with normal volume is recommended.
C. Turn off all background noise and speak to the patient from behind. While reducing background noise is beneficial, speaking from behind is ineffective as the patient cannot see the nurse’s facial expressions or read lips.
D. Assume the patient can read lips and avoid using sign language or gestures. Assuming the patient can read lips is not appropriate; gestures or other visual aids should be used to enhance communication.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Drink plenty of fluids to stay well hydrated. Hydration is crucial for clients with sickle cell disease as it helps prevent blood thickening and reduces the risk of sickling crises.
B. Limit your intake of fruits and vegetables to avoid complications. Fruits and vegetables are essential for balanced nutrition and are not contraindicated in sickle cell disease. Limiting them is unnecessary and could lead to nutritional deficiencies.
C. You can stop your prescribed antibiotics once you feel better. Antibiotics should always be completed as prescribed to fully treat any infection and prevent resistance, especially in individuals with weakened immune responses.
D. Take your pain medications only when you have severe pain. Clients with sickle cell disease should take pain medications as needed, even for mild pain, to prevent escalation of pain and a sickle cell crisis.