A patient whose heart monitor shows sinus tachycardia, rate 132, is apneic and has no palpable pulses. What is the first action that the nurse should take?
a. Perform synchronized cardioversion.
b. Start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
c. Administer atropine per agency dysrhythmia protocol.
d. Provide supplemental oxygen via non-rebreather mask.
ANS: B
The patient's clinical manifestations indicate pulseless electrical activity and the nurse should immediately start CPR. The other actions would not be of benefit to this patient.
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a. Administer an analgesic. b. Document the finding. c. Reposition the client. d. Assess the client for perforation.
The nurse is determining a pain management plan for a patient with chronic pain. What should the nurse identify as the best analgesic schedule for this patient?
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A critically ill patient has been diagnosed with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). What symptoms would the nurse expect?
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