Question

A client in the postpartum unit complains of sudden, sharp chest pain. The client is tachycardic, and the respiratory rate is increased. The health care provider diagnoses a pulmonary embolism. Which actions should the nurse plan to take? Select all that apply.

Answer 1

When a client in the postpartum unit complains of sudden, sharp chest pain and is tachycardic with an increased respiratory rate, the healthcare provider may diagnose a pulmonary embolism. To manage a pulmonary embolism, the nurse should notify the healthcare provider, administer oxygen, initiate anticoagulant therapy, elevate the affected leg, monitor vital signs frequently, and encourage deep breathing and ambulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client in the postpartum unit complains of sudden, sharp chest pain and is tachycardic with an increased respiratory rate, the healthcare provider may diagnose a pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot lodges in the pulmonary vessels and interrupts blood flow, causing decreased oxygenation. To manage a pulmonary embolism, the nurse should take the following actions:

1. Notify the healthcare provider: Inform the healthcare provider about the client's condition and the suspected diagnosis of pulmonary embolism.
2. Administer oxygen: Provide supplemental oxygen to increase the client's oxygen saturation and alleviate hypoxemia.
3. Initiate anticoagulant therapy: Anticoagulant medications, such as heparin or warfarin, are commonly used to prevent further clot formation and facilitate clot dissolution.
4. Elevate the affected leg: To promote venous return and reduce edema, elevating the affected leg may be beneficial.
5. Monitor vital signs frequently: Continue to assess the client's heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation to monitor for any changes or complications.
6. Encourage deep breathing and ambulation: Deep breathing exercises and early ambulation can help prevent complications such as atelectasis and deep vein thrombosis.

Answer 2

The plan that the nurse should make are;

• Administer oxygen therapy.
• Initiate anticoagulant therapy.
• Encourage deep breathing and coughing exercises.
• Prepare for fibrinolytic therapy.

In the postpartum unit, a nurse diagnosed with pulmonary embolism should give priority to a number of actions for a client exhibiting sudden chest pain, tachycardia, and increased respiratory rate. Oxygen administration is necessary to relieve respiratory distress. Starting anticoagulant medication, like heparin, helps stop new clot formation.

To preserve respiratory health, deep breathing and coughing exercises are encouraged. In addition, severe cases might require preparation for fibrinolytic therapy. The main interventions are to address the embolism and ensure respiratory support, although pain medication is taken into consideration for comfort.

Missing parts;

A client in the postpartum unit complains of sudden, sharp chest pain. The client is tachycardic, and the respiratory rate is increased. The health care provider diagnoses a pulmonary embolism. Which actions should the nurse plan to take? Select all that apply.

A) Administer oxygen therapy.

B) Initiate anticoagulant therapy.

C) Encourage deep breathing and coughing exercises.

D) Administer pain medication.

E) Prepare for fibrinolytic therapy.