A client who has had a laryngectomy and tracheostomy frequently expectorates copious amounts of purulent secretions. When changing the ties of the tracheostomy tube, which action is most important for the nurse to take?
Secure tracheostomy ties by making knots close to the tube.
Remove ties to secure a disposable, soft foam collar with hook and loop fastener.
Leave the old ties in place until the new ones are secure.
Place knots of the ties laterally to prevent irritation and pressure.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Securing tracheostomy ties by making knots close to the tube can cause irritation and pressure on the skin.
Choice B rationale
Removing ties to secure a disposable, soft foam collar with hook and loop fastener is not the most important action when changing the ties of the tracheostomy tube.
Choice C rationale
Leaving the old ties in place until the new ones are secure is the most important action to prevent accidental dislodgement of the tracheostomy tube.
Choice D rationale
Placing knots of the ties laterally to prevent irritation and pressure is important but not the most critical action when changing the ties of the tracheostomy tube.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Postural drainage involves placing the client in various positions to facilitate the drainage of secretions from different parts of the lungs. Typically, the client may be placed in five positions: head down, prone, right and left lateral, and sitting upright.
Choice B rationale
Performing postural drainage immediately after meals is not recommended as it can cause nausea, vomiting, and aspiration. It is best to perform the procedure before meals.
Choice C rationale
Obtaining an arterial blood gas (ABG) prior to the procedure is not a standard requirement for postural drainage. ABGs are typically obtained to assess the client’s respiratory status but are not necessary for the procedure itself.
Choice D rationale
Instructing the client to breathe shallow and fast is not appropriate for postural drainage. The client should be encouraged to breathe slowly and deeply to help keep the airways open and facilitate the drainage of secretions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Determining the neurological baseline prior to the fall is important but not the immediate priority. The client’s current confusion and projectile vomiting suggest a potential acute condition that needs immediate assessment.
Choice B rationale
Determining the client’s last dose of corticosteroids is relevant for managing multiple sclerosis but does not address the immediate concern of confusion and vomiting.
Choice C rationale
Administering a PRN IV antiemetic as prescribed can help manage vomiting but does not address the underlying cause of the symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Completing a head-to-toe neurological assessment is the priority intervention. The client’s confusion and projectile vomiting could indicate increased intracranial pressure or another acute neurological condition that requires immediate attention.