NUR 283 Advanced Medical-Surgical Nursing and Complex Health Alterations Exam with Q and A

NUR 283 Advanced Medical-Surgical Nursing and Complex Health Alterations Exam with Q and A A patient with acute decompensated heart failure develops worsening dyspnea, crackles in both lung bases, and oxygen saturation of 86% despite supplemental oxygen. Which nursing action is the priority? a. Encourage oral fluid intake b. Place the patient in high-Fowler’s position and administer prescribed oxygen therapy c. Obtain a daily weight d. Restrict dietary sodium Correct Answer: b. Place the patient in high-Fowler’s position and administer prescribed oxygen therapy Rationale: Airway and breathing take priority. Positioning the patient upright decreases venous return and improves lung expansion, while oxygen therapy helps correct hypoxemia. The other interventions are important but do not address the immediate respiratory compromise. A patient with infective endocarditis suddenly develops left-sided weakness and slurred speech. What is the most likely explanation? a. Septic embolization to the cerebral circulation b. Dehydration from fever c. Adverse effect of antibiotic therapy d. Electrolyte imbalance Correct Answer: a. Septic embolization to the cerebral circulation