When performing postural drainage on a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which approach should the nurse use?
Explain that the client may be placed in five positions.
Perform the drainage immediately after meals.
Obtain an arterial blood gas (ABG) prior to the procedure.
Instruct the client to breathe shallow and fast.
The Correct Answer is A
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.
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Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A computerized tomography (CT) scan of the chest is not typically required for routine pneumonia cases unless there are complications or the pneumonia is not responding to standard treatment. CT scans provide more detailed images but are usually reserved for more complex cases.
Choice B rationale:
Albuterol treatments by nebulizer every 4 to 6 hours are appropriate for managing wheezing and bronchospasm associated with pneumonia, especially in a patient with a history of COPD. Albuterol helps open the airways, making it easier for the patient to breathe.
Choice C rationale:
A chest x-ray is a standard diagnostic tool for pneumonia. It helps assess the extent of lung involvement and monitor the progression or resolution of the infection. Repeating the chest x-ray can help evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment.

Choice D rationale:
Increasing oral fluids is essential for patients with pneumonia to help thin mucus, making it easier to expectorate. Adequate hydration also supports overall health and recovery.
Choice E rationale:
Obtaining an arterial blood gas (ABG) is important for assessing the patient’s oxygenation and acid-base status. This information is crucial for managing respiratory distress and ensuring adequate oxygen delivery.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Irregular rapid heart rate (tachycardia) is a serious side effect of albuterol and warrants immediate intervention. Albuterol is a beta-2 agonist that can cause stimulation of beta-1 receptors in the heart, leading to tachycardia and potential arrhythmias.
Choice B rationale
Uncontrollable shaking (tremors) is a common side effect of albuterol due to its stimulation of beta-2 receptors in skeletal muscles. While uncomfortable, it is not typically life-threatening.
Choice C rationale
Increased anxiety can occur with albuterol use due to its stimulant effects on the central nervous system. However, it is not as immediately dangerous as tachycardia.
Choice D rationale
Throat irritation is a minor side effect of albuterol and does not require immediate intervention.