a nurse in the emergency department is caring for a client who has cardiogenic pulmonary edema the clients assessment findings include anxiousness dys
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam

1. A client in the emergency department is being cared for by a nurse and has cardiogenic pulmonary edema. The client's assessment findings include anxiousness, dyspnea at rest, crackles, blood pressure 110/79 mm Hg, and apical heart rate 112/min. What is the nurse's priority intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In cardiogenic pulmonary edema, the priority intervention is to improve oxygenation and reduce the workload on the heart. Providing supplemental oxygen at 5 L/min via facemask helps increase oxygen levels and alleviate respiratory distress. This intervention can help improve oxygen saturation, alleviate dyspnea, and support the client's respiratory function. Placing the client in a high-Fowler's position with legs dependent can also help with respiratory effort, but ensuring adequate oxygenation takes precedence. Sublingual nitroglycerin and IV morphine sulfate are commonly used interventions for cardiac-related conditions, but in this case, addressing oxygenation is the priority to prevent further deterioration.

2. A patient is assessing a client who has just been admitted to the emergency department. The client is having difficulty breathing and is using accessory muscles. What action by the nurse is best?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Placing the client in a high Fowler's position is the best action in this situation as it helps to maximize lung expansion, improve breathing, and decrease the work of breathing. This position allows for better chest expansion, improving oxygenation and ventilation for the client in respiratory distress.

3. A student asks the faculty to explain best practices when communicating with a person from the LGBTQ community. What answer by the faculty is most accurate?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: It is essential not to make assumptions about the health needs of individuals from the LGBTQ community. Each person is unique, and assuming their needs based on their sexual orientation or gender identity can lead to incorrect care and communication. By being open-minded and avoiding assumptions, healthcare providers can create a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ individuals to discuss their health needs openly and honestly.

4. What instruction should be included when teaching a client with asthma about using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI)?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Shaking the inhaler well before use ensures that the medication is properly mixed, allowing for an accurate dose with each administration. Inhaling slowly and deeply, not rapidly, helps the medication reach the lungs effectively. The medication should be administered while sitting or standing to facilitate proper lung expansion and airflow. Holding the inhaler 2 inches away from the mouth can lead to medication loss; it should be placed directly in the mouth or used with a spacer to optimize delivery to the airways.

5. A client with asthma presents with bilateral wheezing, decreased pulse oxygen saturation, and suprasternal retraction on inhalation. Which actions should the nurse take? (SATA)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Suprasternal retraction during inhalation suggests the client is using accessory muscles due to difficulty in moving air into the respiratory passages caused by airway narrowing. The presence of bilateral wheezing and decreased pulse oxygen saturation further support airway narrowing. In this situation, immediate intervention is necessary to improve oxygenation. Administering oxygen to maintain saturations above 94% is crucial to support oxygenation. While administering a rescue inhaler may be warranted, the priority in this scenario is ensuring adequate oxygenation to address the respiratory distress.

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