Test 2 Respiratory Disorders
Guaifenesin 300 mg four times daily has been ordered as an expectorant. The dosage strength of the liquid is 200mg/5ml. How many mL should the nurse administer each dose? Fill in the blank and record your final answer using one decimal place. Answer: _____mL
Correct Answer: 7.5 ml When the medicine is a solution of specific strength, calculations can become more complicated. Liquids (solutions and suspensions) are frequently used in children's nursing - for example for children who find swallowing tablets difficult or patients who have medicines administered via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube.
A female client is scheduled to have a chest radiograph. Which of the following questions is of most importance to the nurse assessing this client? A. "Is there any possibility that you could be pregnant?" B. "Are you wearing any metal chains or jewelry?" C. "Can you hold your breath easily?" D. "Are you able to hold your arms above your head?"
Correct Answer: A. "Is there any possibility that you could be pregnant?" The most important item to ask about is the client's pregnancy status because pregnant women should not be exposed to radiation. The risk of side effects of an X-ray while the client is pregnant is extremely minimal, but it is always important to protect the developing fetus from harm. Option B: Clients are also asked to remove any chains or metal objects that could interfere with obtaining an adequate film. The client may be asked to strip down and wear a hospital gown, or at least remove clothing on the part of the body that needs to be X-rayed. Option C: A chest radiograph most often is done at full inspiration, which gives optimal lung expansion. Option D: If a lateral view of the chest is ordered, the client is asked to raise the arms above the head. The client will be asked to stay still so the image will be as clear as possible. This will provide the most accurate image. Most films are done in posterior-anterior view. The X-ray test works by positioning the part of the body being X-rayed between the source of the X-ray and an X-ray detector (such as a film)..
A client with COPD reports steady weight loss and being "too tired from just breathing to eat." Which of the following nursing diagnoses would be most appropriate when planning nutritional interventions for this client? A. Altered nutrition: Less than body requirements related to fatigue. B. Activity intolerance related to dyspnea. C. Weight loss related to COPD. D. Ineffective breathing pattern related to alveolar hypoventilation.
Correct Answer: A. Altered nutrition: Less than body requirements related to fatigue. The client's problem is altered nutrition—specifically, less than required. The cause, as stated by the client, is the fatigue associated with the disease process. Instruct the patient to frequently eat high caloric foods in smaller portions. COPD patients expend an extraordinary amount of energy simply on breathing and require high caloric meals to maintain body weight and muscle mass. Option B: Activity intolerance is a likely diagnosis but is not related to the client's nutritional problems. Provide at least 90 minutes of undisturbed rest in between activities. Allotment of undisturbed rest reduces demand for oxygen and allows adequate physiologic recovery. Option C: Weight loss is not a nursing diagnosis. Encourage a rest period of 1 hr before and after meals. Helps reduce fatigue during mealtime and provides an opportunity to increase total caloric intake. Avoid gas-producing foods and carbonated beverages. Can produce abdominal distension, which hampers abdominal breathing and diaphragmatic movement and can increase dyspnea. Option D: Ineffective breathing pattern may be a problem, but this diagnosis does not specifically address the problem of weight loss described by the client. Instruct how to splint the chest wall with a pillow for comfort during coughing and elevation of head over the body as appropriate. Promotes physiological ease of maximal inspiration
Basilar crackles are present in a client's lungs on auscultation. The nurse knows that these are discrete, non continuous sounds that are: A. Caused by the sudden opening of alveoli. B. Usually more prominent during expiration. C. Produced by airflow across passages narrowed by secretions. D. Found primarily in the pleura.
Correct Answer: A. Caused by the sudden opening of alveoli Basilar crackles are usually heard during inspiration and are caused by sudden opening of the alveoli. Basilar crackles are a bubbling or crackling sound originating from the base of the lungs. They may occur when the lungs inflate or deflate. They're usually brief, and may be described as sounding wet or dry. Excess fluid in the airways causes these sounds. Option B: Bronchial sounds (also called tubular sounds) normally arise from the tracheobronchial tree and vesicular sounds normally arise from the finer lung parenchyma. Loud, harsh, and high pitched bronchial sounds are typically heard over the trachea or at the right apex. They are predominantly heard during expiration. Option C: Wheezes are musical sounds caused by air movement through constricted small airways, such as bronchioles. Wheezes and rhonchi, which have the same pathology and are separated only by pitch, are produced by the fluttering of narrowed airways and the air that flows through them. Option D: Fluid or air in the pleural space deflects sound waves away from the chest wall back into the lung and therefore breath sounds are reduced in intensity.
When developing a discharge plan to manage the care of a client with COPD, the nurse should anticipate that the client will do which of the following? A. Develop infections easily. B. Maintain current status. C. Require less supplemental oxygen. D. Show permanent improvement.
Correct Answer: A. Develop infections easily. A client with COPD is at high risk for development of respiratory infections. In emphysema, an irritant (e.g., smoking) causes an inflammatory response. Neutrophils and macrophages are recruited and release multiple inflammatory mediators. Oxidants and excess proteases leading to the destruction of the air sacs. The protease-mediated destruction of elastin leads to a loss of elastic recoil and results in airway collapse during exhalation. Option B: COPD is slowly progressive; therefore, maintaining current status is an unrealistic expectation. COPD is an inflammatory condition involving the airways, lung parenchyma, and pulmonary vasculature. The process is thought to involve oxidative stress and protease-antiprotease imbalances. Emphysema describes one of the structural changes seen in COPD where there is destruction of the alveolar air sacs (gas-exchanging surfaces of the lungs) leading to obstructive physiology. Option C: This is an unrealistic expectation. The prognosis of COPD is variable based on adherence to treatment including smoking cessation and avoidance of other harmful gases. Patients with other comorbidities (e.g., pulmonary hypertension, cardiovascular disease, lung cancer) typically have a poorer prognosis. The airflow limitation and dyspnea are usually progressive. Option D: Treatment may slow progression of the disease, but permanent improvement is highly unlikely. As the disease progresses, impairment of gas exchange is often seen. The reduction in ventilation or increase in physiologic dead space leads to CO2 retention. Pulmonary hypertension may occur due to diffuse vasoconstriction from hypoxemia.
Which of the following physical assessment findings would the nurse expect to find in a client with advanced COPD? A. Increased anteroposterior chest diameter. B. Underdeveloped neck muscles. C. Collapsed neck veins. D. Increased chest excursions with respiration.
Correct Answer: A. Increased anteroposterior chest diameter. Increased anteroposterior chest diameter is characteristic of advanced COPD. Air is trapped in the overextended alveoli, and the ribs are fixed in an inspiratory position. The result is the typical barrel-chested appearance. In addition, coarse crackles beginning with inspiration may be heard. Option B: Overly developed, not underdeveloped, neck muscles are associated with COPD because of their increased use in the work of breathing. Use of accessory respiratory muscles and paradoxical indrawing of lower intercostal spaces is evident (known as the Hoover sign). Option C: Distended, not collapsed, neck veins are associated with COPD as a symptom of the heart failure that the client may experience secondary to the increased workload on the heart to pump into pulmonary vasculature. In advanced disease, cyanosis, elevated jugular venous pulse (JVP), and peripheral edema can be observed. Option D: Diminished, not increased, chest excursion is associated with COPD. The sensitivity of a physical examination in detecting mild to moderate COPD is relatively poor; however, physical signs are quite specific and sensitive for severe disease. Patients with severe disease experience tachypnea and respiratory distress with simple activities.
A female patient suffers adult respiratory distress syndrome as a consequence of shock. The patient's condition deteriorates rapidly, and endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation are initiated. When the high-pressure alarm on the mechanical ventilator, alarm sounds, the nurse starts to check for the cause. Which condition triggers the high-pressure alarm? A. Kinking of the ventilator tubing. B. A disconnected ventilator tube. C. An endotracheal cuff leak. D. A change in the oxygen concentration without resetting the oxygen level alarm.
Correct Answer: A. Kinking of the ventilator tubing. Conditions that trigger the high-pressure alarm include kinking of the ventilator tubing, bronchospasm or pulmonary embolism, mucus plugging, water in the tube, coughing or biting on endotracheal tube, and the patient's being out of breathing rhythm with the ventilator. If an alarm occurs, the caregiver should always evaluate the patient before checking the ventilator. Option B: A disconnected ventilator tube would trigger the low-pressure alarm. If the pressure inside the breathing circuit drops below the Low Airway Pressure Alarm limit set on the ventilator, an audible and/or visual alarm activates. Option C: Some causes for low-pressure alarms are: the patient becomes disconnected from the ventilator circuit; inadequate inflation of the tracheostomy tube cuff; poorly fitting noninvasive masks or nasal pillows/prongs; loose circuit and tubing connections; or the patient demands higher levels of air than the ventilator is putting out. Option D: Changing the oxygen concentration without resetting the oxygen level alarm would trigger the oxygen alarm. Oxygen concentration is the amount of oxygen delivered to the patient. When the patient is not receiving added oxygen, the oxygen level will be the same as room air (21%).
A client is admitted to the hospital with acute bronchitis. While taking the client's VS, the nurse notices he has an irregular pulse. The nurse understands that cardiac arrhythmias in chronic respiratory distress are usually the result of: A. Respiratory acidosis B. A build-up of carbon dioxide C. A build-up of oxygen without adequate expelling of carbon dioxide. D. An acute respiratory infection.
Correct Answer: B. A build-up of carbon dioxide. The arrhythmias are caused by a build-up of carbon dioxide and not enough oxygen so that the heart is in a constant state of hypoxia. The majority of arrhythmias observed in these patients appeared to take the form of premature ventricular and/or supraventricular beats and less frequently of atrial fibrillation and/or attacks of supraventricular paroxysmal tachycardia. Cardiac rhythm alterations were observed using Holter monitoring in 70-90% of patients. No cardiac rhythm disorder is specific to this pathological condition. Option A: The compensation to respiratory acidosis consists in a secondary increase in bicarbonate concentration, and the arterial blood gas analysis is characterized by a reduced pH, increased pCO2 (initial variation), and increased bicarbonate levels (compensatory response). Option C: Acute bronchitis is a clinical diagnosis based on history, past medical history, lung exam, and other physical findings. Oxygen saturation plays an important role in judging the severity of the disease along with the pulse rate, temperature, and respiratory rate. Option D: Acute bronchitis is the result of acute inflammation of the bronchi secondary to various triggers, most commonly viral infection, allergens, pollutants, etc. Inflammation of the bronchial wall leads to mucosal thickening, epithelial-cell desquamation, and denudation of the basement membrane. At times, a viral upper respiratory infection can progress to infection of the lower respiratory tract resulting in acute bronchitis.
On auscultation, which finding suggests a right pneumothorax? A. Bilateral inspiratory and expiratory crackles. B. Absence of breaths sound in the right thorax. C. Inspiratory wheezes in the right thorax. D. Bilateral pleural friction rub.
Correct Answer: B. Absence of breaths sound in the right thorax In pneumothorax, the alveoli are deflated and no air exchange occurs in the lungs. Therefore, breath sounds in the affected lung field are absent. A pneumothorax is defined as a collection of air outside the lung but within the pleural cavity. It occurs when air accumulates between the parietal and visceral pleura inside the chest. The air accumulation can apply pressure on the lung and make it collapse. The degree of collapse determines the clinical presentation of pneumothorax. None of the other options are associated with pneumothorax. Option A: Bilateral crackles may result from pulmonary congestion. Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs. It may be in one or both lungs. The infection causes air sacs in the lungs to become pus-filled and inflamed. This causes a cough, difficulty breathing, and crackles. Pneumonia may be mild or life-threatening. Option C: Inspiratory wheezes may signal asthma. Asthma is a heterogeneous syndrome characterized by variable, reversible airway obstruction and abnormally increased responsiveness (hyperreactivity) of the airways to various stimuli. The syndrome is characterized by wheezing, chest tightness, dyspnea, and/or cough, and results from widespread contraction of tracheobronchial smooth muscle (bronchoconstriction), hypersecretion of mucus, and mucosal edema, all of which narrow the caliber of the airways. Option D: A pleural friction rub may indicate pleural inflammation. Auscultation of a pleural friction rub can occur when the normally smooth surfaces of the visceral and parietal pleura become roughened by inflammation. A pleural friction rub is an adventitious breath sound heard on auscultation of the lung. The pleural rub sound results from the movement of inflamed and roughened pleural surfaces against one another during movement of the chest wall. This sound is non-musical, and described as "grating," "creaky," or "the sound made by walking on fresh snow."
Rhea, confused and short breath, is brought to the emergency department by a family member. The medical history reveals chronic bronchitis and hypertension. To learn more about the current respiratory problem, the doctor orders a chest x-ray and arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis. When reviewing the ABG report, the nurses see many abbreviations. What does a lowercase "a" in ABG value present? A. Acid-base balance B. Arterial Blood C. Arterial oxygen saturation D. Alveoli
Correct Answer: B. Arterial Blood A lowercase "a" in an ABG value represents arterial blood. For instance, the abbreviation PaO2 refers to the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood. Arterial blood gas analysis can be used to assess gas exchange and acid base status as well as to provide immediate information about electrolytes. Option A: The pH value reflects the acid-base balance in arterial blood. pH is a logarithmic scale of the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. It is inversely proportional to the concentration of hydrogen ions. When a solution becomes more acidic the concentration of hydrogen ions increases and the pH falls. Option C: Sa02 indicates arterial oxygen saturation. Oxygen saturation (SaO2) is a measurement of the percentage of how much hemoglobin is saturated with oxygen. Oxygen is transported in the blood in two ways: oxygen dissolved in blood plasma (pO2) and oxygen bound to hemoglobin (SaO2). About 97% of oxygen is bound to hemoglobin while 3% is dissolved in plasma. Option D: An uppercase "A" represents alveolar conditions: for example, PA02 indicates the partial pressure of oxygen in the alveoli. Partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2). This measures the pressure of oxygen dissolved in the blood and how well oxygen is able to move from the airspace of the lungs into the blood.
Assessing a client who has developed atelectasis postoperatively, the nurse will most likely find: A. A flushed face. B. Dyspnea and pain. C. Decreased temperature. D. Severe cough and no pain.
Correct Answer: B. Dyspnea and pain Atelectasis is a collapse of the alveoli due to obstruction or hypoventilation. Clients become short of breath, have a high temperature, and usually experience severe pain but do not have a severe cough. The shortness of breath is a result of decreased oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange at the alveolar level. Postoperative atelectasis typically occurs within 72 hours of general anesthesia and is a well-known postoperative complication. Option A: The definition of atelectasis is a partial collapse of the lung. It can cause people to feel short of breath. It can be a consequence of several different processes, most commonly when there is a poor inspiratory effort, an obstruction blocking airflow into the lung, extra pressure exerted on the outside of the lung, or deficient production or function of a specific protein in the lung. Option C: Postoperative fever has historically been attributed to atelectasis, but there is no evidence supporting the finding that atelectasis is a causative mechanism for fever. For patients with atelectasis, the prognosis varies greatly, and the primary determination is the underlying etiology and patient co-morbidities. Option D: Inadequate pain control can contribute to the development of atelectasis by inducing shallow breathing ("splinting") and/or inhibiting coughing. Typically, atelectasis is asymptomatic. However, a patient might also present with decreased or absent breath sounds, crackles, cough, sputum production, dyspnea, tachypnea, and/or diminished chest expansion.
A nurse is assessing a client with chronic airflow limitation and notes that the client has a "barrel chest." The nurse interprets that this client has which of the following forms of chronic airflow limitation? A. Chronic obstructive bronchitis B. Emphysema C. Bronchial asthma D. Bronchial asthma and bronchitis
Correct Answer: B. Emphysema The client with emphysema has hyperinflation of the alveoli and flattening of the diaphragm. These lead to increased anteroposterior diameter, which is referred to as "barrel chest." The client also has dyspnea with prolonged expiration and has hyperresonant lungs to percussion. Option A: Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that is defined as a productive cough of more than 3 months occurring within a span of 2 years. Patients typically present with chronic productive cough, malaise, and symptoms of excessive coughing such as chest or abdominal pain. Option C: Asthma is a condition of acute, fully reversible airway inflammation, often following exposure to an environmental trigger. The pathological process begins with the inhalation of an irritant (e.g., cold air) or an allergen (e.g., pollen), which then, due to bronchial hypersensitivity, leads to airway inflammation and an increase in mucus production. This leads to a significant increase in airway resistance, which is most pronounced on expiration. Option D: Acute bronchitis is the result of acute inflammation of the bronchi secondary to various triggers, most commonly viral infection, allergens, pollutants, etc. Inflammation of the bronchial wall leads to mucosal thickening, epithelial-cell desquamation, and denudation of the basement membrane. At times, a viral upper respiratory infection can progress to infection of the lower respiratory tract resulting in acute bronchitis.
A client has just returned to a nursing unit following bronchoscopy. A nurse would implement which of the following nursing interventions for this client? A. Encouraging additional fluids for the next 24 hours B. Ensuring the return of the gag reflex before offering foods or fluids C. Administering atropine intravenously D. Administering small doses of midazolam (Versed).
Correct Answer: B. Ensuring the return of the gag reflex before offering foods or fluids After bronchoscopy, the nurse keeps the client on NPO status until the gag reflex returns because the preoperative sedation and the local anesthesia impair swallowing and the protective laryngeal reflexes for a number of hours. Although bronchoscopy can be done without sedation, most procedures are done under moderate conscious sedation with the use of various sedatives based on the clinician's preference (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, dexmedetomidine). Option A: Additional fluids are unnecessary because no contrast dye is used that would need to be flushed from the system. Regardless of the sedation or anesthesia used the physicians should be aware of the potential side effects and how to manage patients receiving these medications. Option C: Atropine would be administered before the procedure, not after. Atropine premedication is widely used for fiberoptic bronchoscopy and may help by drying secretions, producing bronchodilation, or preventing vasovagal reactions. Option D: The administration of additional midazolam in small doses, until the target sedation level is achieved, is a safe procedure that is associated with significantly less discomfort and pain during bronchoscopy and a greater consent to re?examination when compared with the administration of a fixed dose of midazolam.
A client's arterial blood gas levels are as follows: pH 7.31; PaO2 80 mm Hg, PaCO2 65 mm Hg; HCO3- 36 mEq/L. Which of the following signs or symptoms would the nurse expect? A. Cyanosis B. Flushed skin C. Irritability D. Anxiety
Correct Answer: B. Flushed skin The high PaCO2 level causes flushing due to vasodilation. The client also becomes drowsy and lethargic because carbon dioxide has a depressant effect on the CNS. On the contrary, chronic respiratory acidosis may be caused by COPD where there is a decreased responsiveness of the reflexes to states of hypoxia and hypercapnia. Option A: Cyanosis is a late sign of hypoxia. In respiratory acidosis, the slight increase in bicarbonate serves as a buffer for the increase in H+ ions, which helps minimize the drop in pH. In some cases, patients may present with cyanosis due to hypoxemia. Option C: Irritability is not common with a PaCO2 level of 65 mm Hg but is associated with hypoxia. If the respiratory acidosis is severe and accompanied by prolonged hypoventilation, the patient may have additional symptoms such as altered mental status, myoclonus, and possibly even seizures. Option D: The clinical presentation of respiratory acidosis is usually a manifestation of its underlying cause. Signs and symptoms vary based on the length, severity, and progression of the disorder. Patients can present with dyspnea, anxiety, wheezing, and sleep disturbances.
The nurse would anticipate which of the following ABG results in a client experiencing a prolonged, severe asthma attack? A. Decreased PaCO2, increased PaO2, and decreased pH. B. Increased PaCO2, decreased PaO2, and decreased pH. C. Increased PaCO2, increased PaO2, and increased pH. D. Decreased PaCO2, decreased PaO2, and increased pH.
Correct Answer: B. Increased PaCO2, decreased PaO2, and decreased pH. As the severe asthma attack worsens, the client becomes fatigued and alveolar hypotension develops. This leads to carbon dioxide retention and hypoxemia. The client develops respiratory acidosis. Therefore, the PaCO2 level increases, the PaO2 level decreases, and the pH decreases, indicating acidosis. Option A: Respiratory acidosis is a very common acid-base disturbance in acute severe asthma and is widely considered to be an ominous finding. Its early recognition and treatment are important and decisive for the final outcome, as it can lead to respiratory failure and arrest if prolonged. Option C: Hypercapnia in asthma, in addition to the severity of the disease, is also associated with the therapeutic administration of oxygen. Thus, in patients with severe asthma exacerbation, a significant increase (?4 mmHg) in transcutaneous PCO2 (PtCO2) was observed in a higher proportion in those receiving high oxygen mixtures (>8 L/min), compared to those who received titrated oxygen (to achieve oxygen saturation of 93-95%) Option D: Lee et al. noted that PaCO2 was significantly higher and the arterial blood pH lower in asthmatics who died, and delays in providing mechanical ventilation led to worse outcomes. Another mechanism implicates the Haldane effect, in which oxygen displaces the CO2 dissociation curve to the right, increasing PaCO2, which cannot be normalized as patients with severe COPD are unable to increase ventilation.
The physician has scheduled a client for a left pneumonectomy. The position that will most likely be ordered postoperatively for his is the: A. Nonoperative side or back B. Operative side or back C. Back only D. Back or either side.
Correct Answer: B. Operative side or back Following pneumonectomy, the client is positioned on the operative side to allow the fluid left in the lung space to consolidate and avoid the heart from shifting to the operative side. Pneumonectomy is defined as the surgical removal of the entire lung. Extrapleural pneumonectomy is an expanded procedure that also involves resection of parietal and visceral pleura, ipsilateral hemidiaphragm, pericardium, and mediastinal lymph nodes. Option A: The patient is then usually positioned in a lateral decubitus position with the operating side up. Proper positioning of the DLT or the bronchial blocker is usually reconfirmed with the FOB, and single lung ventilation is then started. Care should be taken to ensure proper positioning to avoid perioperative nerve injury. Option C: Following pneumonectomy, pulmonary functions decrease but are usually less than anticipated for removal of 50% of lung, especially for residual volume, and this may be explained by overexpansion of the remaining lung tissue. FEV1, FVC, DLCO, and lung compliance decrease. Airway resistance increases. Option D: Patients with no disease in the remaining lung usually do have normal SaO2, PO2, and PaCO2 at rest. A chest X-ray immediately following pneumonectomy usually shows the trachea in the midline and the postpneumonectomy space to be filled with air. Later, that space becomes filled gradually with fluid at a rate of 1 to 2 intercostal spaces/day. The ipsilateral diaphragm becomes elevated, and the mediastinum is gradually shifted towards the operative side.
A female client comes into the emergency room complaining of SOB and pain in the lung area. She states that she started taking birth control pills 3 weeks ago and that she smokes. Her VS are: 140/80, P 110, R 40. The physician orders ABG's, results are as follows: pH: 7.50; PaCO2 29 mm Hg; PaO2 60 mm Hg; HCO3- 24 mEq/L; SaO2 86%. Considering these results, the first intervention is to: A. Begin mechanical ventilation. B. Place the client on oxygen. C. Give the client sodium bicarbonate. D. Monitor for pulmonary embolism.
Correct Answer: B. Place the client on oxygen The pH (7.50) reflects alkalosis, and the low PaCO2 indicates the lungs are involved. The client should immediately be placed on oxygen via mask so that the SaO2 is brought up to 95%. Encourage slow, regular breathing to decrease the amount of CO2 she is losing. Option A: Mechanical ventilation may be ordered for acute respiratory acidosis. In patients who are not significantly encephalopathic and have no excessive secretions, noninvasive ventilation with CPAP or BIPAP can be a useful modality to support ventilation and avoid the need for anesthesia and sedation, as well as the risk of nosocomial infection with endotracheal intubation. Option C: Sodium bicarbonate would be given to reverse acidosis. Sodium bicarbonate infusion reduces plasma ionized calcium concentration in critically ill patients with metabolic acidosis. In vitro, bicarbonate concentration has a major effect reducing ionized calcium level in serum Option D: This client may have pulmonary embolism, so she should be monitored for this condition, but it is not the first intervention. A timely diagnosis of a pulmonary embolism (PE) is crucial because of the high associated mortality and morbidity, which may be prevented with early treatment. It is important to note that 30% of untreated patients with pulmonary embolism die, while only 8% die after timely therapy.
A client has an order to have radial ABG drawn. Before drawing the sample, a nurse occludes the: A. Brachial and radial arteries, and then releases them and observes the circulation of the hand. B. Radial and ulnar arteries, releases one, evaluates the color of the hand, and repeats the process with the other artery. C. Radial artery and observes for color changes in the affected hand. D. Ulnar artery and observes for color changes in the affected hand.
Correct Answer: B. Radial and ulnar arteries, releases one, evaluates the color of the hand, and repeats the process with the other artery. Before drawing an ABG, the nurse assesses the collateral circulation to the hand with Allen's test. This involves compressing the radial and ulnar arteries and asking the client to close and open the fist. This should cause the hand to become pale. The nurse then releases pressure on one artery and observes whether circulation is restored quickly. The nurse repeats the process, releasing the other artery. The blood sample may be taken safely if collateral circulation is adequate. Option A: Puncture of the radial artery is usually preferred because of the accessibility of the vessel, the presence of collateral circulation, and the artery's superficial course proximal to the wrist, which makes it easier for the clinician to identify the vascular structure and hold local pressure after the procedure is finished. Option C: The radial artery is most easily accessible medial to the radial styloid process and lateral to the flexor carpi radialis tendon, 2-3 cm proximal to the ventral surface of the wrist crease. Firm occlusive pressure is held on both the radial artery and the ulnar artery. The patient is asked to clench the fist several times until the palmar skin is blanched, then to unclench the fist. Option D: If radial artery sampling is not feasible, femoral artery puncture is a possible alternative. When femoral artery puncture is being considered, the potential risk of infection at the entry site and the artery's proximity to the femoral vein and nerve must be taken into
The client with asthma should be taught which of the following is one of the most common precipitating factors of an acute asthma attack? A. Occupational exposure to toxins. B. Viral respiratory infections. C. Exposure to cigarette smoke. D. Exercising in cold temperatures.
Correct Answer: B. Viral respiratory infections. The most common precipitator of asthma attacks is viral respiratory infection. Clients with asthma should avoid people who have the flu or a cold and should get yearly flu vaccinations. Asthma is a condition of acute, fully reversible airway inflammation, often following exposure to an environmental trigger. The pathological process begins with the inhalation of an irritant (e.g., cold air) or an allergen (e.g., pollen), which then, due to bronchial hypersensitivity, leads to airway inflammation and an increase in mucus production. This leads to a significant increase in airway resistance, which is most pronounced on expiration. Option A: Environmental exposure to toxins or heavy particulate matter can trigger asthma attacks; however, far fewer asthmatics are exposed to such toxins than are exposed to viruses. Asthma comprises a range of diseases and has a variety of heterogeneous phenotypes. The recognized factors that are associated with asthma are a genetic predisposition, specifically a personal or family history of atopy (propensity to allergy, usually seen as eczema, hay fever, and asthma). Option C: Cigarette smoke can also trigger asthma attacks, but to a lesser extent than viral respiratory infections. Asthma also is associated with exposure to tobacco smoke and other inflammatory gases or particulate matter. Option D: Some asthmatic attacks are triggered by exercising in cold weather. The overall etiology is complex and still not fully understood, especially when it comes to being able to say which children with pediatric asthma will carry on to have asthma as adults (up to 40% of children have a wheeze, only 1% of adults have asthma), but it is agreed that it is a multifactorial pathology, influenced by both genetics and environmental exposure.
An acceleration in oxygen dissociation from hemoglobin, and thus oxygen delivery to the tissues, is caused by: A. A decreasing oxygen pressure in the blood. B. An increasing carbon dioxide pressure in the blood. C. A decreasing oxygen pressure and/or an increasing carbon dioxide pressure in the blood. D. An increasing oxygen pressure and/or a decreasing carbon dioxide pressure in the blood.
Correct Answer: C. A decreasing oxygen pressure and/or an increasing carbon dioxide pressure in the blood. The lower the PO2 and the higher the PCO2, the more rapidly oxygen dissociated from the oxyhemoglobin molecule. Factors that contribute to a right-shift in the oxygen dissociation curve and favor the unloading of oxygen correlate with exertion. These include increased body temperature, decreased pH (due to increased production of CO2), and increased 2,3-BPG. (Figure) This right shift of the oxyhemoglobin curve can be viewed as an adaptation for physical exertion. Option A: In the setting of hypoxia or low blood oxygen levels, irreversible tissue damage can rapidly occur. Hypoxia can be the result of an impaired oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood (e.g., anemia), impaired unloading of oxygen from hemoglobin in target tissues (e.g., carbon monoxide toxicity), or from a restriction of blood supply. Option B: Hemoglobin (Hgb or Hb) is the primary carrier of oxygen in humans. Approximately 98% of total oxygen transported in the blood is bound to hemoglobin, while only 2% is dissolved directly in plasma. Hemoglobin is a metalloprotein with four subunits, each composed of an iron-containing heme group attached to a globin polypeptide chain. One molecule of oxygen can bind to the iron atom of a heme group, giving each hemoglobin the ability to transport four molecules of oxygen. Option D: The body maintains adequate oxygenation of tissues in the setting of decreased PO or increased demand for oxygen. These changes often express shifts in the oxygen dissociation curve, which represents the percentage of hemoglobin saturated with oxygen at varying levels of PO.
A cyanotic client with an unknown diagnosis is admitted to the E.R. In relation to oxygen, the first nursing action would be to: A. Wait until the client's lab work is done. B. Not administer oxygen unless ordered by the physician. C. Administer oxygen at 2 L flow per minute. D. Administer oxygen at 10 L flow per minute and check the client's nail beds.
Correct Answer: C. Administer oxygen at 2 L flow per minute. Administer oxygen at 2 L/minute and no more, for if the client is emphysemic and receives too high a level of oxygen, he will develop CO2 narcosis and the respiratory system will cease to function. With prolonged oxygen therapy there is an increase in blood oxygen level, which suppresses peripheral chemoreceptors; depresses ventilator drive and increase in PCO2. high blood oxygen level may also disrupt the ventilation: perfusion balance (V/Q) and cause an increase in dead space to tidal volume ratio and increase in PCO2. Option A: This is the 'gold standard' monitor of ventilation. Arterial blood gases are needed to obtain accurate data, in particular, evidence of hypoventilation (raised PaCO2) as a reason for hypoxemia. Arterial blood gases may also give an indication of the metabolic effects of clinically important hypoxemia. Option B: Although history taking and clinical examination may clarify the diagnosis, oxygen at 40%-60% should be continued until blood gas results are available unless the patient is drowsy or is known to have had previous episodes of Hypercapnic respiratory failure. Option D: Low intravascular volume either due to acute blood loss as in trauma can result in poor oxygen transport and tissue hypoxia. So, these patients should be given high concentration oxygen to maintain oxygen saturation above 90% until arrival at an emergency department. This can be achieved in most cases by the use of approximately 40%-60% oxygen via a medium concentration mask at a flow rate of 4-10 l/ min.
A fifty-year-old client has a tracheostomy and requires tracheal suctioning. The first intervention in completing this procedure would be to: A. Change the tracheostomy dressing. B. Provide humidity with a trach mask. C. Apply oral or nasal suction. D. Deflate the tracheal cuff.
Correct Answer: C. Apply oral or nasal suction. Before deflating the tracheal cuff, the nurse will apply oral or nasal suction to the airway to prevent secretions from falling into the lung. Dressing change and humidity do not relate to suctioning. Airway suctioning is a procedure routinely done in most care settings, including acute care, sub-acute care, long-term care, and home settings. Suctioning is performed when the patient is unable to effectively move secretions from the respiratory tract. Option A: Airways suctioning is indicated for multiple reasons. Most commonly suctioning is done for the removal of secretions from the respiratory tract, but sometimes also for removal of blood or other materials like meconium in specific cases. Airway suctioning is also performed for diagnostic purposes. Option B: Suctioning of the lower airways should be done in a sterile manner with single-use gloves and suction catheters to prevent contamination and secondary infection. After preparation with appropriate equipment at the bedside and monitoring continuous heart rate and oxygen saturation (as available), the patient should be suctioned with appropriately sized equipment for their airway. Option D: After preparation with appropriate equipment at the bedside and monitoring continuous heart rate and oxygen saturation (as available), the patient should be suctioned with appropriately sized equipment for their airway.
Miriam, a college student with acute rhinitis sees the campus nurse because of excessive nasal drainage. The nurse asks the patient about the color of the drainage. In acute rhinitis, nasal drainage normally is: A. Yellow B. Green C. Clear D. Gray
Correct Answer: C. Clear Normally, nasal drainage in acute rhinitis is clear. Anterior rhinoscopy typically reveals swelling of the nasal mucosa and thin, clear secretions. The inferior turbinates may take on a bluish hue, and cobblestoning of the nasal mucosa may be present. On physical examination, clinicians may notice mouth breathing, frequent sniffling and/or throat clearing, transverse supra-tip nasal crease, and dark circles under the eyes (allergic shiners). Option A: Yellow drainage indicates spread of the infection to the sinuses. Yellow mucus is a sign that whatever virus or infection the client has is taking hold. The body is fighting back. The yellow color comes from the cells — white blood cells, for example — rushing to kill the offending germs. Once the cells have done their work, they're discarded in the drainage and tinge it a yellowish-brown. Option B: Green drainage may also indicate infection. If the immune system kicks into high gear to fight infection, the drainage may turn green and become especially thick. The color comes from dead white blood cells and other waste products. Some sinus infections may be viral, not bacterial. Option D: Gray drainage may indicate a secondary infection. This could be a fungal sinus infection. These are different from viral or bacterial infections because the fungi feeds on the nasal tissue—and reproduces. Fungal sinus infections may occur due to a previous nasal injury or long-term nasal inflammation, as well as a weakened immune system. Growths called "fungus balls" develop in the cheek sinus as clumps of fungal spores. The fungus balls must be removed by surgery.
A client with acute asthma is prescribed short-term corticosteroid therapy. What is the rationale for the use of steroids in clients with asthma? A. Corticosteroids promote bronchodilation. B. Corticosteroids act as an expectorant. C. Corticosteroids have an anti-inflammatory effect. D. Corticosteroids prevent development of respiratory infections.
Correct Answer: C. Corticosteroids have an anti-inflammatory effect. Corticosteroids have an anti-inflammatory effect and act to decrease edema in the bronchial airways and decrease mucus secretion. At a physiologic level, steroids reduce airway inflammation and mucus production and potentiate beta-agonist activity in smooth muscles and reduce beta-agonists tachyphylaxis in patients with severe asthma. Corticosteroids do not have a bronchodilator effect, act as expectorants, or prevent respiratory infections. Option A: Short-acting inhaled beta-agonists are the drug of the first choice in acute asthma. Albuterol is preferred over metaproterenol in that class because of its higher beta 2 selectivities and longer duration of action. The dose-response curve and duration of action of these medications are adversely affected by a combination of patient factors, including pre existing bronchoconstriction, airway inflammation, mucus plugging, poor patient effort, and coordination. Option B: Anticholinergics have a variable response in acute exacerbation with a somewhat underwhelming bronchodilatory role. However, they can be useful in patients with bronchospasm induced by beta-blockade or severe underlying obstructive disease with FEV1 less than 25% of predicted. Option D: Graham et al. conducted a randomized double-blinded trial and demonstrated no difference in improvement in symptom score, spirometry, or length of hospitalization with routine use of antibiotics in status asthmaticus. That does not mean that patients with clinical signs of infection should not be treated with antimicrobials, or due diligence should not be pursued in obtaining respiratory culture specimens early on
Immediately following a thoracentesis, which clinical manifestations indicate that a complication has occurred and the physician should be notified? A. Serosanguineous drainage from the puncture site. B. Increased temperature and blood pressure. C. Increased pulse and pallor. D. Hypotension and hypothermia.
Correct Answer: C. Increased pulse and pallor Increased pulse and pallor are symptoms associated with shock. A compromised venous return may occur if there is a mediastinal shift as a result of excessive fluid removal. Usually, no more than 1 L of fluid is removed at one time to prevent this from occurring. Option A: Complications include bleeding, pain, and infection at the point of needle entry. If the approach is made too high in the intercostal space damage to the coastal vasculature and nerve injury is possible. Option B: If too much fluid is removed or if the fluid is removed too rapidly (eg using negative pressure chambers) re-expansion (aka post-expansion) pulmonary edema may occur. Removal of significant fluid volumes may also induce vasovagal physiology. Option D: If the procedural needle/catheter is passed through diseased tissue prior to entering the chest cavity, that process can be extended into the chest space. For example, passing the needle through thoracic or pleural tumor can seed the thoracic cavity or passing the needle through a chest wall abscess or otherwise infected tissue can result in empyema.
Aminophylline (theophylline) is prescribed for a client with acute bronchitis. A nurse administers the medication, knowing that the primary action of this medication is to: A. Promote expectoration. B. Suppress the cough. C. Relax smooth muscles of the bronchial airway. D. Prevent infection.
Correct Answer: C. Relax smooth muscles of the bronchial airway. Aminophylline is a bronchodilator that directly relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchial airway. Theophylline causes non-selective inhibition of type III and type IV isoenzymes of phosphodiesterase, which leads to increased tissue cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic 3?,5? guanosine monophosphate concentrations, resulting in smooth muscle relaxation in lungs and pulmonary vessels, diuresis, CNS and cardiac stimulation. Option A: Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier. Mucolytics are drugs belonging to the class of mucoactive agents. They exert their effect on the mucus layer lining the respiratory tract with the motive of enhancing its clearance. Option B: Antitussives are drugs that suppress the cough reflex. Persistent coughing can be exhausting and can cause muscle strain and further irritation of the respiratory tract. They act on the cough-control center in the medulla to suppress the cough reflex. Option D: Antibiotics are powerful medicines that fight bacterial infections. They either kill bacteria or stop them from reproducing, allowing the body's natural defenses to eliminate the pathogens. Used properly, antibiotics can save lives. But growing antibiotic resistance is curbing the effectiveness of these drugs. Taking an antibiotic as directed, even after symptoms disappear, is key to curing infection and preventing the development of resistant bacteria
A client with allergic rhinitis asks the nurse what he should do to decrease his symptoms. Which of the following instructions would be appropriate for the nurse to give the client? A. "Use your nasal decongestant spray regularly to help clear your nasal passages." B. "Ask the doctor for antibiotics. Antibiotics will help decrease the secretion." C. "It is important to increase your activity. A daily brisk walk will help promote drainage." D. "Keep a diary when your symptoms occur. This can help you identify what precipitates your attacks."
Correct Answer: D. "Keep a diary when your symptoms occur. This can help you identify what precipitates your attacks." It is important for clients with allergic rhinitis to determine the precipitating factors so that they can be avoided. Keeping a diary can help identify these triggers. Patients often underestimate the severity of this condition and fail to seek medical therapy. It is important to adequately control AR, especially due to the link between AR and asthma, with poor control of rhinitis predicting poor control of asthma. Option A: Nasal decongestant sprays should not be used regularly because they can cause a rebound effect. If removing a pet from home is not feasible, isolating the pet to a single room in the house may be an option to minimize dander exposure. It may take up to 20 weeks to eliminate cat dander from home even after removing the animal. Option B: Antibiotics are not appropriate. Intranasal corticosteroid therapy can be as monotherapy or in combination with oral antihistamines in patients with mild, moderate, or severe symptoms. Studies have shown intranasal corticosteroids are superior to antihistamines in effectively reducing nasal inflammation and improving mucosal pathology. Option C: Increasing activity will not control the client's symptoms; in fact, walking outdoors may increase them if the client is allergic to pollen. Avoidance of triggers, especially in those with seasonal symptoms, is encouraged, although it is not always practical. Precautions can be taken to avoid dust mites, animal dander, and upholstery, though this can require significant lifestyle changes that may not be acceptable to the patient.
A 34-year-old woman with a history of asthma is admitted to the emergency department. The nurse notes that the client is dyspneic, with a respiratory rate of 35 breaths/minute, nasal flaring, and use of accessory muscles. Auscultation of the lung fields reveals greatly diminished breath sounds. Based on these findings, what action should the nurse take to initiate care of the client? A. Initiate oxygen therapy and reassess the client in 10 minutes. B. Draw blood for an ABG analysis and send the client for a chest x-ray. C. Encourage the client to relax and breathe slowly through the mouth. D. Administer bronchodilators.
Correct Answer: D. Administer bronchodilators. In an acute asthma attack, diminished or absent breath sounds can be an ominous sign indicating lack of air movement in the lungs and impending respiratory failure. The client requires immediate intervention with inhaled bronchodilators, intravenous corticosteroids, and possibly intravenous theophylline. Option A: Administering oxygen and reassessing the client 10 minutes later would delay needed medical intervention. A favorable response to initial treatment of status asthmaticus should be a visible improvement in symptoms that sustains 30 minutes or beyond the last bronchodilator dose and a PEFR greater than 70% of predicted. Option B: Drawing an ABG and obtaining a chest x-ray would be a delay. The absolute value of PEFR less than 120 L per minute and FEV1 less than 1 L corresponds with the proportional reduction. These absolute numbers should prompt an assessment of arterial blood gas (ABG) immediately. Initial blood gas results indicate respiratory alkalosis with hypoxemia. Option C: It would be futile to encourage the client to relax and breathe slowly without providing necessary pharmacologic intervention. An initial aggressive treatment trial of beta-agonists, corticosteroids, and anticholinergics has to be tried, followed by adjunct measures, which may not be based on robust guidelines but evidence.
The nurse assesses the respiratory status of a client who is experiencing an exacerbation of COPD secondary to an upper respiratory tract infection. Which of the following findings would be expected? Normal breath sounds A. Normal breath sounds B. Prolonged inspiration C. Normal chest movement D. Coarse crackles and rhonchi
Correct Answer: D. Coarse crackles and rhonchi Exacerbations of COPD are frequently caused by respiratory infections. Coarse crackles and rhonchi would be auscultated as air moves through airways obstructed with secretions. Crackles are usually due to airway secretions within a large airway and disappear on coughing. These crackles are scanty, gravity-independent, usually audible at the mouth, and strongly associated with severe airway obstruction. Option A: In COPD, breath sounds are diminished because of an enlarged anteroposterior diameter of the chest. A reduction in breath sound intensity (BSI) is often seen in patients with COPD. Pardee et al. developed a scoring system for BSI. According to this system, the clinician listens sequentially over six locations on the patient's chest: bilaterally over the upper anterior portion of the chest, in the midaxillary, and at the posterior bases. Option B: Expiration, not inspiration, becomes prolonged. Patients with COPD often present with diminished breath sounds, prolonged expiratory time, and expiratory wheezing that initially may occur only on forced expiration. Option C: Chest movement is decreased as lungs become overdistended. Additional findings on physical examination include hyperinflation of the lungs with an increased anteroposterior chest diameter ("barrel chest"); use of accessory muscles of respiration; and distant heart sounds, sometimes best heard in the epigastrium.
Before administering ephedrine, Nurse Tony assesses the patient's history. Because of ephedrine's central nervous system (CNS) effects, it is not recommended for: A. Patients with an acute asthma attack. B. Patients with narcolepsy. C. Patients under age D. Elderly patients.
Correct Answer: D. Elderly patients Ephedrine is not recommended for elderly patients, who are particularly susceptible to CNS reactions (such as confusion and anxiety) and to cardiovascular reactions (such as increased systolic blood pressure, coldness in the extremities, and anginal pain). Ephedrine is also arrhythmogenic, and caution should be used during administration to patients who are predisposed to arrhythmias or taking other arrhythmogenic medications, particularly digitalis. Option A: Ephedrine is used for its bronchodilator effects with acute and chronic asthma. Oral formulations of ephedrine have been used historically to treat asthma via pulmonary vasoconstriction and reduction in airway edema along with beta-induced bronchodilation, but it is rarely used for this purpose in modern medicine due to unwanted cardiac effects and availability of more selective beta-agonists such as albuterol. Option B: Ephedrine is used occasionally for its CNS stimulant actions for narcolepsy. Ephedrine acts as both a direct and indirect sympathomimetic. It binds directly to both alpha and beta receptors; however, its primary mode of action is achieved indirectly, by inhibiting neuronal norepinephrine reuptake and by displacing more norepinephrine from storage vesicles. This action allows norepinephrine to be present in the synapse longer to bind postsynaptic alpha and beta receptors. Option C: It can be administered to children age 2 and older. The FDA has not formally established safety and effectiveness in pediatric populations. Additionally, ephedrine is distributed by the manufacturer in 50mg/mL vials and requires dilution before intravenous use.
Which of the following would be an expected outcome for a client recovering from an upper respiratory tract infection? The client will: A. Maintain a fluid intake of 800 ml every 24 hours. B. Experience chills only once a day. C. Cough productively without chest discomfort. D. Experience less nasal obstruction and discharge.
Correct Answer: D. Experience less nasal obstruction and discharge. A client recovering from an URI should report decreasing or no nasal discharge and obstruction. Decongestants and combination antihistamine/decongestant medications can limit cough, congestion, and other symptoms in adults. Avoid cough preparations in children. H1-receptor antagonists may offer a modest reduction of rhinorrhea and sneezing during the first 2 days of a cold in adults. Option A: Daily fluid intake should be increased to more than 1 L every 24 hours to liquefy secretions. Topical and oral nasal decongestants (i.e., topical oxymetazoline, oral pseudoephedrine) have moderate benefit in adults and adolescents in reducing nasal airway resistance. Evidence-based data does not support the use of antibiotics in the treatment of the common cold because they do not improve symptoms or shorten the course of illness. Option B: The temperature should be below 100*F (37.8*C) with no chills or diaphoresis. According to a Cochrane Review, vitamin C used as daily prophylaxis at doses of =0.2 grams or more had a "modest but consistent effect" on the duration and severity of common cold symptoms (8% and 13% decreases in duration for adults and children, respectively). Option C: A productive cough with chest pain indicated pulmonary infection, not an URI. The presence of classical features for rhinovirus infection, coupled with the absence of signs of bacterial infection or serious respiratory illness, is sufficient to make the diagnosis of the common cold. The common cold is a clinical diagnosis, and diagnostic testing is not necessary.
A male adult patient on mechanical ventilation is receiving pancuronium bromide (Pavulon), 0.01 mg/kg I.V. as needed. Which assessment finding indicates that the patient needs another pancuronium dose? A. Leg movement B. Finger movement C. Lip movement D. Fighting the ventilator
Correct Answer: D. Fighting the ventilator Pancuronium, a non-depolarizing blocking agent, is used for muscle relaxation and paralysis. It assists mechanical ventilation by promoting endotracheal intubation and paralyzing the patient so that the mechanical ventilator can do its work. Fighting the ventilator is a sign that the patient needs another pancuronium dose. The nurse should administer 0.01 to 0.02 mg/kg I.V. every 20 to 60 minutes. Movement of the legs, or lips has no effect on the ventilator and therefore is not used to determine the need for another dose. Option A: Leg movement is not used as an indication for another dose. Pancuronium bromide is a long-acting, bis-quaternary aminosteroid, non-depolarizing, neuromuscular blocking drug (NMBD), which was first synthesized in 1964 and found to possess fewer adverse effects with regards to hemodynamic stability and histamine release as compared to the prototypical NMBD, d-tubocurarine. Option B: Finger movement does not determine if the client needs another dose. Pancuronium administration is by intravenous bolus. A continuous IV infusion may be a consideration in the management of critically ill patients. Option C: Lip movement does not indicate that the patient needs another dose. The typical intubating dose is 0.1 mg/kg with a 3 to 5-minute onset to maximal muscle relaxation. The 95% effective dose is 0.07 mg/kg. There is a 60- to the 90-minute duration of action (return to 25% of control twitches) with a typical intubating dose. Maintenance of neuromuscular blockade is possible with a dose of 0.02 mg/kg, titrated to the level of blockade.
A male patient is admitted to the healthcare facility for treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Which nursing diagnosis is most important for this patient? A. Activity intolerance related to fatigue. B. Anxiety related to actual threat to health status. C. Risk for infection related to retained secretions. D. Impaired gas exchange related to airflow obstruction.
Correct Answer: D. Impaired gas exchange related to airflow obstruction. A patient airway and an adequate breathing pattern are the top priority for any patient, making "impaired gas exchange related to airflow obstruction" the most important nursing diagnosis. Monitor O2 saturation and titrate oxygen to maintain Sp02 between 88% to 92%. Pulse oximetry reading of 87% below may indicate the need for oxygen administration while a pulse oximetry reading of 92% or higher may require oxygen titration. The other options also may apply to this patient but less important. Option A: Patients with COPD experience progressive activity and exercise intolerance. Evaluation of the patient's activity tolerance and limitations helps create strategies to promote independent ADLs. Assess the patient's respiratory response to activity which includes monitoring of respiratory rate and depth, oxygen saturation, and use of accessory muscles for respiration. Option B: Ineffective Coping may be related to decreased socialization, depression, anxiety, and inability to work. Provide instructions for self-management of COPD. Assessment of the patient's knowledge and including family members about the therapeutic regimen increases adherence to treatment regimen. Option C: Respiratory infections that are minor in nature may be threatening to people with COPD. Bronchopulmonary infections must be controlled or prevented to diminish inflammatory edema. Review the importance of breathing exercises, effective cough, frequent position changes, and adequate fluid intake.
A male adult patient hospitalized for treatment of a pulmonary embolism develops respiratory alkalosis. Which clinical findings commonly accompany respiratory alkalosis? A. Nausea or vomiting B. Abdominal pain or diarrhea C. Hallucinations or tinnitus D. Lightheadedness or paresthesia
Correct Answer: D. Lightheadedness or paresthesia The patient with respiratory alkalosis may complain of lightheadedness or paresthesia (numbness and tingling in the arms and legs). The exact history and physical exam findings are highly variable as there are many pathologies that induce the pH disturbance. These may include acute onset dyspnea, fever, chills, peripheral edema, orthopnea, weakness, confusion, light-headedness, dizziness, anxiety, chest pain, wheezing, hemoptysis, trauma, history of central line catheter, recent surgery, history of thromboembolic disease, history of asthma, history of COPD, acute focal neurological signs, numbness, paresthesia, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, tinnitus, or weight loss. Option A: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea may accompany respiratory acidosis. Following a performance predominantly relying on anaerobic glycolysis, systemic acidosis may cause vomiting as a physiological response to drain H + and thereby allow the stomach to add bicarbonate to the body Option B: Hyperchloremic acidosis is caused by the loss of too much sodium bicarbonate from the body, which can happen with severe diarrhea. In pathologies with profuse watery diarrhea, bicarbonate within the intestines is lost through the stool due to increased motility of the gut. This leads to further secretion of bicarbonate from the pancreas and intestinal mucosa, leading to net acidification of the blood from bicarbonate loss. Option C: Hallucinations and tinnitus are associated with respiratory alkalosis or any other acid-base imbalance. Respiratory alkalosis in itself is not life-threatening; however, the underlying etiology may be. Always look for and treat the source of the illness. Interventions to reduce pH directly are typically not necessary as there is no mortality benefit to this therapy.
A client is receiving isoetharine hydrochloride (Bronkosol) via a nebulizer. The nurse monitors the client for which side effect of this medication? A. Constipation B. Diarrhea C. Bradycardia D. Tachycardia
Correct Answer: D. Tachycardia Side effects that can occur from a beta 2 agonist include tremors, nausea, nervousness, palpitations, tachycardia, peripheral vasodilation, and dryness of the mouth or throat. Due to the vasodilatory effect of peripheral vasculature and subsequent decrease in cardiac venous return, compensatory mechanisms manifest as tachycardia are relatively common, especially within the first weeks of usage. Option A: Constipation is not a side effect of isoetharine. Beta-2 agonists have been shown to decrease serum potassium levels via an inward shift of potassium into the cells due to an effect on the membrane-bound Na/K-ATPase, which can potentially result in hypokalemia. Beta-2 agonists also promote glycogenolysis, which can lead to inadvertent elevations in serum glucose. Option B: Adverse effects of beta-2 agonists most commonly involve the desensitization of the beta-2 adrenergic receptor to the beta-2 agonist. Due to the similar properties between the classes of adrenergic receptors, beta-2 agonists can create an "off-target" effect in stimulating either alpha-1, alpha-2, or beta-1 receptors. The most common side effects of beta-2 agonists involve the cardiac, metabolic, or musculoskeletal system. Option C: Arrhythmias are seen more commonly in fenoterol usage versus albuterol, and arrhythmias have an increase in frequency in patients with underlying heart disease or concomitant theophylline use. Several studies have also indicated hypoxemia and hypercapnia as exacerbating factors to the cardiotoxic effects of beta-2 agonists.
Which of the following is the primary reason to teach pursed-lip breathing to clients with emphysema? A. To promote oxygen intake. B. To strengthen the diaphragm. C. To strengthen the intercostal muscles. D. To promote carbon dioxide elimination.
Correct Answer: D. To promote carbon dioxide elimination. Pursed lip breathing prolongs exhalation and prevents air trapping in the alveoli, thereby promoting carbon dioxide elimination. By prolonged exhalation and helping the client relax, pursed-lip breathing helps the client learn to control the rate and depth of respiration. Pursed-lip breathing does not promote the intake of oxygen, strengthen the diaphragm, or strengthen intercostal muscles. Option A: For those suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the ability to take in oxygen is a constant struggle. It's possible to increase oxygen levels in other ways, such as cellular therapy. Cellular therapy may promote the healing of lung tissue, potentially improving lung function. When lung function improves, the client is able to take in more oxygen as well as expel carbon dioxide because the lungs are working more effectively. Option B: Diaphragmatic breathing is a type of a breathing exercise that helps strengthen the diaphragm, an important muscle that helps us breathe. This breathing exercise is also sometimes called belly breathing or abdominal breathing. Option C: Breathing exercises slowly fill the lungs with air to expand the chest and work the intercostal muscles. To do this exercise, it is typically recommended to sit or stand with the back straight, then take a full breath from the bottom of the lungs. It can help to think of breathing from the diaphragm, by slowly expanding the abdominal muscles while inhaling, then pushing air from the lungs using these same muscles.
The nurse is teaching the client how to use a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) to administer a Corticosteroid drug. Which of the following client actions indicates that he is using the MDI correctly? Select all that apply. A. The inhaler is held upright. B. Head is tilted down while inhaling the medication. C. Client waits 5 minutes between puffs. D. Mouth is rinsed with water following administration. E. Client lies supine for 15 minutes following administration.
Correct Answers: A & D. Inhaled respiratory medications are often taken by using a device called a metered-dose inhaler, or MDI. The MDI is a pressurized canister of medicine in a plastic holder with a mouthpiece. When sprayed, it gives a reliable, consistent dose of medication. Option A: Remove the cap and hold the inhaler upright. Each inhaler consists of a small canister of medicine connected to a mouthpiece. The canister is pressurized. As the client presses down on the inhaler, it releases a mist of medicine. The client breathes that mist into the lungs. It's important to use the inhaler correctly. Option B: Tilt the head back slightly and breathe out all the way. Keep the chin up and the inhaler upright (not aimed at the roof of the mouth or the tongue). Option C: Repeat puffs as directed by the doctor. Wait 1 minute before taking the second puff. A delay of 10-20 minutes between successive doses of the bronchodilator drug has been suggested in order to let the first act to improve the penetration and effect of the second dose, but again the evidence that this works is inconclusive. Many patients may forget to take a second dose with such a long interval. Option D: Some inhalers (steroid) also recommend rinsing the mouth out with water and gargling with water (spit out the water) after use. If using this inhaler for a corticosteroid preventer medication, with or without a spacer, rinse the mouth with water and spit after inhaling the last dose to reduce the risk of side-effects Option E: The client does not have to be in the supine position after administration. Proper instruction by a trained person with a placebo aerosol is essential to teach the correct inhaler technique. This should be followed subsequently by regular checks to locate any faults that may develop. Inevitably, some patients will be unable to use an MDI, and for them, spacer attachments, or dry powder inhalers are preferable since they place fewer demands on patients' skill. Even these devices, however, must be used properly to achieve a satisfactory effect.
