Physiological Adaptation Q 64

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Norma has started a new drug for hypertension. Thirty minutes after she takes the drug, she develops chest tightness and becomes short of breath and tachypnea. She has a decreased level of consciousness. These signs indicate which of the following conditions?

  

     A. Asthma attack

     B. Pulmonary embolism

     C. Respiratory failure

     D. Rheumatoid arthritis

    

    

Correct Answer: C. Respiratory failure

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The client was reacting to the drug with respiratory signs of impending anaphylaxis, which could lead to eventually respiratory failure.

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Option A: The symptoms may look like an asthma attack, but it may change because of the new drug ingested.

Option B: Although the signs are also related to a pulmonary embolism, consider the new drug first.

Option D: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease, which means that the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body by mistake, causing inflammation in the affected parts of the body.

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