The nurse has just received report on the telemetry unit. Which client should be seen first?

Question

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The client with a DVT should be seen first. This client has a current clot and is at risk for development of a pulmonary embolism (PE) if the clot mobilizes. Enoxaparin is a low-molecular-weight heparin given as an anticoagulant and should not be delayed. The nurse should monitor the client for signs and symptoms of bleeding and clinical manifestations of a PE such as dyspnea, chest pain, or hypoxemia. pulmonary embolism (Option A) Atelectasis is a common complication after heart surgery. The nurse needs to assess the client and encourage coughing, deep breathing, and use of the incentive spirometer. These interventions are important but should be done after the other client has received enoxaparin. (Option B) At 4 hours post permanent pacemaker insertion, the client will need vital signs measured less frequently. The pacer is 100% paced, indicating that it is working appropriately. This client needs assessment by the nurse but is a lower priority than the client with DVT. (Option D) The client with atrial fibrillation is at risk of forming left atrial clots, which can embolize and cause stroke. Warfarin and other anticoagulants (eg, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban) are given for prevention of clot formation. It is important that this client receive anticoagulants, but the client with the DVT is a higher priority due to the current clot that could mobilize and cause a PE. Educational objective: The nurse should prioritize the administration of an anticoagulant to the client with a DVT as this client is at risk for clot mobilization and development of a PE.

The Nurse Has Just Received Report on the Telemetry Unit