NCLEX Practice Question (Answer 319)
The nurse is caring for a client who suffered an inhalation injury from a wood stove. The carbon monoxide blood report reveals a level of 12%. Based on this level, the nurse would anticipate which of the following signs in the client? |
1. Coma
2. Flushing
3. Dizziness
4. Tachycardia
Rationale |
Answer and Rationale:
Option 2 is Correct answer. Rationale: Carbon monoxide levels between 11% and 20% result in flushing, headache, decreased visual acuity, decreased cerebral functioning, and slight breathlessness; levels of 21% to 40% result in nausea, vomiting, dizziness, tinnitus, vertigo, confusion, drowsiness, pale to reddish-purple skin, tachycardia; levels of 41% to 60% result in seizure and coma; and levels higher than 60% result in death.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and focus on the carbon monoxide level presented in the question. Remember that flushing occurs with levels between 11% and 20%; this will assist you in answering questions similar to this one. If you had difficulty with this question, review the effects of an inhalation injury, carbon monoxide levels, and the associated clinical manifestations. |