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A client with a suspected pulmonary embolus is admitted to a medical unit from the emergency department. The client complains of shortness of breath and severe chest pain. Which other signs and symptoms would support the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism? A. Low grade fever B. Productive white sputum C. 2 degree AV block D. Frothy sputum

Short Answer

Expert verified
Low grade fever (Option A) would support the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the condition

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in your lungs. It is most commonly caused by blood clots that travel to the lungs from the legs or other parts of the body (deep vein thrombosis). Common symptoms of PE include shortness of breath, chest pain especially upon breathing in, and coughing, sometimes with blood-tinged sputum.
02

Analyzing the options

Look at each of the provided options and determine which symptoms and signs are commonly associated with PE. Low-grade fever can occur with PE due to inflammation or infection. Productive white sputum is more commonly associated with infections like pneumonia. 2-degree AV block is a type of heart block and not typically a symptom of PE. Frothy sputum is often associated with heart failure or acute respiratory distress syndrome, not specifically PE.
03

Identifying the correct choice

Identify the option that aligns closest with the common signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism. Low-grade fever (Option A) can accompany a PE due to the inflammatory response of the lungs to the embolism.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

NCLEX-RN Examination
The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a standardized examination that every nursing graduate must pass to become a licensed registered nurse. The test assesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities that are essential for safe and effective practice as an entry-level nurse.

From recognizing common medical conditions to critical thinking and decision-making, the NCLEX-RN covers a broad range of topics, including medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology, and mental health nursing. Every test is unique as it uses a computerized adaptive testing technology which means the difficulty of the questions adjusts to the test taker's ability level.

For pulmonary embolism diagnosis, the examination may include questions on patient assessment, symptoms' identification, appropriate nursing interventions, and understanding of diagnostic tests. Nursing graduates should understand the pathophysiology of pulmonary embolism, interpret patient data, and apply clinical knowledge in a simulated context to ensure proper patient care.
Pulmonary Embolism Signs and Symptoms
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. The signs and symptoms of PE can be variable, but there are some classic presentations that the medical and nursing personnel should be vigilant about.

Typical signs and symptoms include sudden onset of shortness of breath, sharp chest pain that may worsen with deep breathing or coughing, rapid heart rate, and sometimes, coughing up blood. Less common symptoms may involve sweating, feeling lightheaded or dizzy, and syncope. A patient may also exhibit a low-grade fever, indicative of a inflammatory response to the embolus.

It's important to consider the context of these symptoms as well. For instance, patients who have recently had surgery, are immobilized, or have a history of clotting disorders are at higher risk, and their symptoms should prompt consideration of a PE diagnosis. Nurses play a crucial role in identifying these signs and advocating for prompt diagnostic evaluation.
Medical Nursing Content
Medical nursing content consists of comprehensive knowledge on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of various medical conditions, including pulmonary embolism. For nursing professionals, it is crucial to be well-versed in the pathophysiology, risk factors, and evidence-based interventions for such conditions.

As part of the medical nursing curriculum, students learn through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills how to perform patient assessments, recognize clinical manifestations of various conditions, and implement appropriate care plans. For instance, nursing care for a patient with suspected pulmonary embolism involves monitoring vital signs, administering oxygen, and preparing the patient for diagnostic studies such as a CT scan or a D-dimer test.

Incorporating this content into practice, nurses should also be equipped with skills in patient education, as informing patients about their condition, treatment options, and preventive measures is essential for long-term management and recovery. With a strong base in medical nursing content, nurses can provide high-quality care, ensuring patient safety and optimizing outcomes.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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