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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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Increased pulse, respirations and blood pressure with dysphagia and respiratory distress. A myasthenic crisis is characterized by severe muscle weakness that can lead to respiratory failure, dysphagia, and increased vital signs due to the stress of respiratory distress.
B. Hypotension, diarrhea, and increased salivation. These symptoms are more indicative of a cholinergic crisis, which is due to excess acetylcholine.
C. Bradycardia and hypothermia. Bradycardia and hypothermia are not characteristic signs of a myasthenic crisis.
D. Tachypnea and hyperactive deep tendon reflexes. While tachypnea can occur in respiratory distress, hyperactive reflexes are not typical in myasthenic crisis, as it involves neuromuscular weakness.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Interferon Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs): IGRAs are useful for detecting TB infection but do not confirm active TB disease. They measure the immune response to TB bacteria but don’t differentiate between latent and active infection.
B. Sputum culture: Sputum culture is the gold standard for confirming active TB because it identifies Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria directly, confirming active infection.
C. Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): The TST can indicate TB infection but cannot distinguish between latent and active TB, making it unsuitable as a confirmatory test for active disease.
D. Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray can show signs suggestive of TB but cannot confirm the presence of TB bacteria, so it is not definitive for diagnosing active TB.