A postoperative client with a tracheostomy tube in place suddenly begins have noisy, bubbly sounding respirations. What action should the nurse take first?
Suction the tracheostomy
Change the tracheostomy tube
Notify the healthcare provider
Change the tracheostomy dressing
Do a head to toe assessment
The Correct Answer is A
A. Suctioning the tracheostomy is the priority action to clear secretions, which is likely the cause of the noisy, bubbly respirations. This can help the client breathe more easily.
B. Changing the tracheostomy tube is only necessary if the tube is obstructed or malfunctioning, and suctioning is generally the first step.
C. Notifying the healthcare provider may be needed if suctioning is ineffective or if complications persist, but immediate intervention is required.
D. Changing the tracheostomy dressing does not address the respiratory noise or potential secretion buildup.
E. A head-to-toe assessment may be needed, but the immediate concern is clearing the airway obstruction.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Supine is not recommended, as it can make breathing more difficult by limiting chest expansion.
B. Trendelenberg is not suitable for someone with breathing difficulties, as this position can worsen dyspnea.
C. High-Fowler is the best position for an asthma patient experiencing shortness of breath as it promotes lung expansion and allows for maximum chest wall movement.
D. Semi-Fowler may help but is less effective than High-Fowler in cases of acute respiratory distress.
E. Left-lateral does not optimize chest expansion and is not typically recommended for respiratory distress.
Correct Answer is E
Explanation
A. In asthma, increased airway resistance can lead to decreased fremitus due to air trapping and poor conduction of vibrations.
B. Emphysema results in hyperinflated lungs, which typically decreases tactile fremitus because of increased air in the alveoli.
C. Pneumothorax involves air in the pleural space, leading to decreased tactile fremitus as well, since air does not conduct vibrations well.
D. Acute bronchitis can cause some changes in fremitus, but it typically does not significantly increase it.
E. Pneumonia causes consolidation of lung tissue, which increases tactile fremitus due to enhanced transmission of vibrations through solidified lung tissue.