The nurse is admitting a client who reports symptoms of dyspnea. The nurse notes edema of the upper arms, face, and neck. What is the nurse's priority assessment?
Degree of upper body vasculature observed.
Arm circumference and degree of edema.
Blood pressure and heart rate.
Peripheral sensation and movement of upper extremities.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Assessing the degree of upper body vasculature may provide some information, but it does not directly address the client's current symptoms or vital status.
B. Measuring arm circumference and evaluating the degree of edema are important for understanding the extent of swelling but do not assess the client’s hemodynamic stability or respiratory status.
C. Blood pressure and heart rate are critical assessments in this scenario, especially considering the client’s dyspnea and upper body edema. Changes in these vital signs can indicate potential respiratory distress, compromised cardiac function, or anaphylaxis, which requires immediate intervention.
D. While assessing peripheral sensation and movement is important for overall neurological function, it is not a priority in this context compared to assessing vital signs that can directly affect the client’s stability.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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B. Encouraging a low-fat diet is important after a cholecystectomy, but this can be addressed after ensuring the client's respiratory function and mobilization are stable.
C. Encouraging the use of the incentive spirometer is the priority intervention as it promotes lung expansion, reduces the risk of atelectasis, and improves oxygenation, which is crucial in the post-operative period.
D. While ambulating the client is important for recovery and preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis, it should follow ensuring that the patient is able to effectively use the incentive spirometer to maintain respiratory function first.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Applying pressure to injection sites helps reduce bleeding but does not directly prevent tumor lysis syndrome.
B. Monitoring telemetry is important for patients with potential cardiac issues but is not specifically related to preventing complications from tumor lysis syndrome.
C. Ensuring a high fluid intake of 3000 to 5000 mL/day helps dilute electrolytes and reduce the risk of acute kidney injury and other complications associated with tumor lysis syndrome, making this the most crucial intervention.
D. Assisting the client in ambulatory activities may support their overall well-being but does not address the prevention of tumor lysis syndrome.