HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

Which nursing intervention is appropriate for a patient experiencing acute chest pain?

1. Instruct the patient to take deep breaths.

2. Encourage the patient to rest in bed.

3. Monitor the patient's vital signs closely.

4. Provide reassurance before calling for help.

The correct answer is: Monitor the patient's vital signs closely.

Monitoring the patient's vital signs closely is a critical intervention for a patient experiencing acute chest pain, as it allows the nurse to assess for any changes that could indicate a worsening condition. Vital signs provide essential information about the patient's cardiovascular status and response to potential cardiac events, such as myocardial infarction or angina. Changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or oxygen saturation can help in recognizing the severity of the patient's condition and guiding further interventions. While other interventions, such as encouraging rest and providing reassurance, play a role in patient comfort, they do not directly address the immediate risks associated with acute chest pain. Monitoring vital signs ensures that any deterioration can be quickly identified and managed, prioritizing patient safety and enabling timely medical intervention if necessary.