Question

A client with a fractured leg exhibits the following: pink, frothy sputum; dyspnea; and diaphoresis. Which nursing action is most appropriate? A. Lower the head of the bed B. Check the client's vital signs C. Notify the physician D. Turn the client to the left side

Short answer

Answer: Notify the physician

Step-by-step solution

Analyze each option

Let's analyze each option: A. Lowering the head of the bed may help with breathing, but it's not addressing the underlying cause of the symptoms. B. Checking the client's vital signs could indicate if the client's condition is deteriorating and might provide additional information for further actions. C. Notifying the physician is important, as the symptoms could indicate a major health risk that requires immediate medical attention. D. Turning the client to the left side might help with the breathing issue, but it's also not addressing the underlying cause of the symptoms.

Determine the most appropriate action

After analyzing each option, the most appropriate nursing action is: C. Notify the physician The reason behind this choice is that the client's symptoms of pink, frothy sputum, dyspnea, and diaphoresis could be an indication of a serious issue, such as pulmonary edema, which would require immediate medical attention.