A patient develops increasing dyspnea and hypoxemia 2 days after heart surgery. To determine whether the patient has acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or pulmonary edema caused by heart failure, the nurse will plan to assist with
a. obtaining a ventilation-perfusion scan.
b. drawing blood for arterial blood gases.
c. insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter.
d. positioning the patient for a chest x-ray.
ANS: C
Pulmonary artery wedge pressures are normal in the patient with ARDS because the fluid in the alveoli is caused by increased permeability of the alveolar-capillary membrane rather than by the backup of fluid from the lungs (as occurs in cardiogenic pulmonary edema). The other tests will not help in differentiating cardiogenic from noncardiogenic pulmonary edema.
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Prior to a patient's scheduled jejunostomy, the nurse is performing the preoperative assessment. What goal should the nurse prioritize during the preoperative assessment?
A) Determining the patient's nutritional needs B) Determining that the patient fully understands the postoperative care required C) Determining the patient's ability to understand and cooperate with the procedure D) Determining the patient's ability to cope with an altered body image
Twelve research studies show a strong correlation between low levels of education and poverty. A social scientist declares that the "cure" for poverty is in free education for all of the children of the poor
What are valid arguments against this declaration? (Select all that apply.) a. The scientist believes that a low level of education, in and of itself, causes poverty, but no study has demonstrated this. b. It is possible that low levels of education cause Item B, and Item B causes poverty. c. It is possible that multigenerational poverty causes lower levels of education. d. It is possible that low levels of education and poverty are both caused by social injustice. e. Twelve correlational research studies are not enough to demonstrate cause: at least 50 studies of 100 subjects each would be required for this.
A(n) ____________________ goal is not expected to be met before a patient is discharged from the hospital. It may be an ongoing process of improvement or a gradual change in circumstances
Fill in the blank with correct word.
A client is using omalizumab (Xolair) for the first time. What is the priority nursing action?
a. Make sure the client takes the medication with water. b. Administer ibuprofen (Motrin) because Xolair often causes headaches. c. Teach the client how to use a syringe. d. Remain with the client and assess for anaphylaxis.