What is the most appropriate position for a patient in pulmonary edema with a blood pressure of 194/92?
1. Sitting upright with legs dependent
2. Dorsal recumbent
3. Head of the bed elevated 60 degrees
4. Torso flat, feet elevated
1
Rationale 1: A patient with a blood pressure of 194/92 is able to sit upright. Sitting upright with legs dependent allows the patient to breathe more comfortably and prevents fluid from accumulating as easily in the lungs.
Rationale 2: This position would not aid with respiratory effort.
Rationale 3: Fluid still may accumulate in the lungs with the patient in this position.
Rationale 4: This position will encourage the accumulation of fluid in the patient's lungs and increase dyspnea.
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