The nurse is caring for a client who has been admitted with a diagnosis of esophageal cancer. The client reports a pain level of 8 on a 0 to 10 pain scale, dysphagia, anorexia, anxiety, and a hoarse voice. Which nursing problem is the priority for this client?
Anxiety and grieving related to progression of disease.
Chronic pain related to tissue destruction by tumor.
Risk for aspiration related to difficulty swallowing.
Imbalanced nutrition less than body requirements.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Anxiety and grieving are important issues but are not the priority when the client is at risk for aspiration.
Choice B rationale
Chronic pain is significant, but the immediate risk of aspiration due to dysphagia takes precedence.
Choice C rationale
Risk for aspiration related to difficulty swallowing is the priority nursing problem. Aspiration can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia.
Choice D rationale
Imbalanced nutrition is important but is secondary to the immediate risk of aspiration.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Laying down on each side with knees bent and breathing from the abdomen is not an effective technique for improving gas exchange in emphysema patients.
Choice B rationale
Increasing the breathing rate for a full 30 seconds can lead to hyperventilation and is not recommended for improving gas exchange.
Choice C rationale
Raising hands above the head to expand the diaphragm is not a recognized technique for improving gas exchange in emphysema patients.
Choice D rationale
Drawing air in through the nose and exhaling slowly through pursed lips is an effective technique for improving gas exchange in emphysema patients. This method helps to keep the airways open longer and improves the removal of trapped air.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Determining the neurological baseline prior to the fall is important but not the immediate priority. The client’s current confusion and projectile vomiting suggest a potential acute condition that needs immediate assessment.
Choice B rationale
Determining the client’s last dose of corticosteroids is relevant for managing multiple sclerosis but does not address the immediate concern of confusion and vomiting.
Choice C rationale
Administering a PRN IV antiemetic as prescribed can help manage vomiting but does not address the underlying cause of the symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Completing a head-to-toe neurological assessment is the priority intervention. The client’s confusion and projectile vomiting could indicate increased intracranial pressure or another acute neurological condition that requires immediate attention.