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    Ati Rn Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Proctored Exam
    Select All That Apply

    The nurse is reviewing the client's medical record. Which of the following findings indicates the client's condition has improved? Select all that apply.

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Blood pressure: The client's BP rose from 164/80 to 176/82. While we want this to stabilize, a "finding" of improvement would be a specific trend downward; however, BP can be volatile during the acute phase of an MI due to pain and compensation. B. Urinary output: While important for assessing organ perfusion, the current exhibits do not provide a baseline for urine output, making it a less immediate indicator of "improvement" than pain or vitals in the hyper-acute phase. C. Respiratory rate: The client was tachypneic (22–24/min). A decrease toward the normal range (12–20/min) indicates decreased physiological stress and better oxygenation. D. Oxygenation saturation: The client’s SpO2 dropped to 89%. An increase to >94 (especially with the prescribed 2 L/min of O2) indicates improved gas exchange and lung perfusion. E. Heart rate: The client was tachycardic (110–120/min) and irregular. A decrease in rate and a return to a regular sinus rhythm (often aided by the prescribed Metoprolol) indicates decreased myocardial oxygen demand. F. Echocardiogram results: An echo shows the structural damage or "wall motion abnormalities" caused by the MI. While it helps with diagnosis and long-term prognosis, it won't show immediate "improvement" in the same way bedside vitals and pain assessments do during the acute intervention. G. Pain level: The client reported pain at a 7/10. A decrease in this number (monitored after Nitroglycerin and Morphine administration) is a primary indicator that myocardial ischemia is resolving.

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