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135. The nurse is caring for a client with a deep vein thrombosis. Which finding would require the nurse's immediate attention?

A) Temperature of 102 degrees Fahrenheit
B) Pulse rate of 98 beats per minute
C) Respiratory rate of 32
D) Blood pressure of 90/50

User Carl Poole
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Final answer:

In the context of deep vein thrombosis, a respiratory rate of 32 warrants immediate attention because it suggests a potential pulmonary embolism, which is an emergency situation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse caring for a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) should give immediate attention to finding C) a respiratory rate of 32. A respiratory rate significantly higher than the normal range of 12-18 breaths per minute could indicate a serious condition, such as a pulmonary embolism, which is a common and potentially life-threatening complication of DVT when a clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs. While a temperature of 102 degrees Fahrenheit is also a concern, it is the elevated respiratory rate that is the most pressing, given the immediate risk associated with pulmonary embolism.

User Amardeep Flora
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