A nurse is caring for a group of patients. Which patient should the nurse see first?
A patient with hypercapnia wearing an oxygen mask
A patient with a chest tube ambulating with the chest tube unclamped
A patient with thick secretions being tracheal suctioned first and then orally
A patient with a new tracheostomy and tracheostomy obturator at bedside
The Correct Answer is B
A. A patient with hypercapnia requires monitoring, but wearing an oxygen mask indicates some level of intervention is in place.
B. A patient with a chest tube should never ambulate with the chest tube unclamped, as this can lead to a collapsed lung and respiratory distress; thus, this patient should be prioritized.
C. While a patient with thick secretions may need suctioning, this is not as critical as ensuring the safety of a patient with an unclamped chest tube.
D. A patient with a new tracheostomy requires monitoring, but the presence of the obturator indicates readiness for emergencies; this does not take priority over the safety of the patient with the chest tube.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Atelectasis can occur in anyone, not just those with chronic conditions; this statement is incorrect.
B. While hyperventilation may temporarily open alveoli, it is not a preventative measure for atelectasis.
C. Breathing exercises, such as incentive spirometry or deep breathing, are effective in preventing atelectasis by promoting lung expansion and alveolar ventilation.
D. A chest tube is typically used to remove air or fluid from the pleural space, not for the treatment of atelectasis, which is often managed with respiratory therapies.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The Good Samaritan Law typically protects individuals who provide care in emergency situations but may not apply if the actions taken are beyond the standard of care or are not in the nurse's training.
B. While the nurse's intention was to save the patient's life, the method employed was not a recognized standard procedure for airway management and may have caused harm.
C. Waiting for help may not have been an appropriate option if the patient's airway was compromised, but the method employed by the nurse was not advisable.
D. Cutting into the trachea and using a straw as a makeshift airway are actions that exceed the typical scope of nursing practice and could be deemed inappropriate, regardless of the outcome for the patient.