During a visit to the home of a patient with heart failure and diabetes, the nurse learns that the patient "feels strange." Data collected includes blood pressure 172/94 mm Hg, pulse 112 beats/min, respirations 22/min, heart rhythm regular, and coarse crackles in lower lung bases. What action should the nurse take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms and vital signs suggest acute exacerbation of heart failure, possibly with pulmonary edema (indicated by coarse crackles in the lower lung bases), which is a medical emergency. Consulting the registered nurse (RN) is the appropriate action to ensure prompt evaluation and management.

During a Visit to the Home of a Patient with Heart