Respiratory Lewis

A patient with asthma has a personal best peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) of 400 L/min. When explaining the asthma action plan, the nurse will teach the patient that a change in therapy is needed when the PEFR is less than ___ L/minute

320 A PEFR less than 80% of the personal best indicates that the patient is in the yellow zone where changes in therapy are needed to prevent progression of the airway narrowing.

Which nursing action for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)could the nurse delegate to experienced unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)? a. Obtain O2 saturation using pulse oximetry. b. Monitor for increased O2 need with exercise. c. Teach the patient about safe use of O2 at home. d. Adjust O2 to keep saturation in prescribed parameters.

A UAP can obtain O2 saturation (after being trained and evaluated in the skill). The other actions require more education and a scope of practice that licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/LVNs) or registered nurses (RNs) would have.

The nurse is caring for a mechanically ventilated patient with a cuffed tracheostomy tube. Which action by the nurse would determine if the cuff has been properly inflated? a. Use a hand-held manometer to measure cuff pressure. b. Review the health record for the prescribed cuff pressure. c. Suction the patient through a fenestrated inner cannula to clear secretions. d. Insert the decannulation plug before removing the nonfenestrated inner cannula.

A (Measurement of cuff pressure using a manometer to ensure that cuff pressure is 20 mm Hg or lower will avoid compression of the tracheal wall and capillaries. Never insert the decannulation plug in a tracheostomy tube until the cuff is deflated and the nonfenestrated inner cannula is removed. Otherwise, the patient's airway is occluded. A health care provider's order is not required to determine safe cuff pressure. A nonfenestrated inner cannula must be used to suction a patient to prevent tracheal damage occurring from the suction catheter passing through the fenestrated openings.)

The nurse completes discharge instructions for a patient with a total laryngectomy. Which statement by the patient indicates that additional instruction is needed? a. "I must keep the stoma covered with an occlusive dressing." b. "I need to have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed." c. "I can participate in my prior fitness activities except swimming." d. "I should wear a Medic-Alert bracelet to identify me as a neck breather."

A (The stoma may be covered with clothing or a loose dressing, but this is not essential. An occlusive dressing will completely block the patient's airway. The other patient comments are all accurate and indicate that the teaching has been effective.)

The nurse reviews the medication administration record (MAR) for a patient having an acute asthma attack. Which medication should the nurse administer first? a. Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) 60 mg IV b. Albuterol (Ventolin HFA) 2.5 mg per nebulizer c. Salmeterol (Serevent) 50 mcg per dry-powder inhaler (DPI) d. Ipratropium (Atrovent) 2 puffs per metered-dose inhaler (MDI)

A Albuterol is a rapidly acting bronchodilator and is the first-line medication to reverse airway narrowing in acute asthma attacks. The other medications work more slowly.

A patient who is experiencing an acute asthma attack is admitted to the emergency department. Which assessment should the nurse complete first? a. Listen to the patient's breath sounds. b. Ask about inhaled corticosteroid use. c. Determine when the dyspnea started. d. Obtain the forced expiratory volume (FEV) flow rate.

A Assessment of the patient's breath sounds will help determine how effectively the patient is ventilating and whether rapid intubation may be necessary. The length of time the attack has persisted is not as important as determining the patient's status at present. Most patients having an acute attack will be unable to cooperate with an FEV measurement. It is important to know about the medications the patient is using but not as important as assessing the breath sounds.

Which finding in a patient hospitalized with bronchiectasis is most important to report to the health care provider? a. Cough productive of bloody, purulent mucus b. Scattered crackles and wheezes heard bilaterally c. Complaint of sharp chest pain with deep breathing d. Respiratory rate 28 breaths/minute while ambulating

A Hemoptysis may indicate life-threatening hemorrhage, and should be reported immediately to the health care provider. The other findings are frequently noted in patients with bronchiectasis and may need further assessment but are not indicators of life-threatening complications.

The nurse in the emergency department receives arterial blood gas results for four recently admitted patients with obstructive pulmonary disease. The results for which patient will require the most rapid action by the nurse? a. pH 7.28, PaCO2 50 mm Hg, and PaO2 58 mm Hg b. pH 7.48, PaCO2 30 mm Hg, and PaO2 65 mm Hg c. pH 7.34, PaCO2 33 mm Hg, and PaO2 80 mm Hg d. pH 7.31, PaCO2 58 mm Hg, and PaO2 64 mm Hg

A The pH, PaCO2, and PaO2 indicate that the patient has severe uncompensated respiratory acidosis and hypoxemia. Rapid action will be required to prevent increasing hypoxemia and correct the acidosis.

A patient who has been experiencing an asthma attack develops bradycardia and a decrease in wheezing. Which action should the nurse take first? a. Notify the health care provider. b. Document changes in respiratory status. c. Encourage the patient to cough and deep breathe. d. Administer IV methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol).

A The patient's assessment indicates impending respiratory failure, and the nurse should prepare to assist with intubation and mechanical ventilation after notifying the health care provider. IV corticosteroids require several hours before having any effect on respiratory status. The patient will not be able to cough or deep breathe effectively. Documentation is not a priority at this time.

A young adult patient who denies any history of smoking is seen in the clinic with a new diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The nurse should plan to teach the patient about a. a1-antitrypsin testing. b. leukotriene modifiers. c. use of the nicotine patch. d. continuous pulse oximetry.

A When COPD occurs in young patients, especially without a smoking history, a genetic deficiency in a1-antitrypsin should be suspected. Because the patient does not smoke, a nicotine patch would not be ordered. There is no indication that the patient requires continuous pulse oximetry. Leukotriene modifiers would be used in patients with asthma, not with COPD.

The nurse is reviewing the medical records for five patients who are scheduled for their yearly physical examinations in September. Which patients should receive the inactivated influenza vaccination (select all that apply)? a. A 76-yr-old nursing home resident b. A 36-yr-old female patient who is pregnant c. A 42-yr-old patient who has a 15 pack-year smoking history d. A 30-yr-old patient who takes corticosteroids for rheumatoid arthritis e. A 24-yr-old patient who has allergies to penicillin and cephalosporins

A, B, D (Current guidelines suggest that healthy individuals between 6 months and age 49 years receive intranasal immunization with live, attenuated influenza vaccine. Individuals who are pregnant, residents of nursing homes, or are immunocompromised or who have chronic medical conditions should receive inactivated vaccine by injection. The corticosteroid use by the 30-yr-old patient increases the risk for infection.)

The nurse assumes care of a patient who just returned from surgery for a total laryngectomy and radical neck dissection and notes the following problems. In which order should the nurse address the problems? (Put a comma and a space between each answer choice [A, B, C, D].) a. The patient is in a side-lying position with the head of the bed flat. b. The patient is coughing blood-tinged secretions from the tracheostomy. c. The nasogastric (NG) tube is disconnected from suction and clamped off. d. The wound drain in the neck incision contains 200 mL of bloody drainage.

A, B, D, C (The patient should first be placed in a semi-Fowler's position to maintain the airway and reduce incisional swelling. The blood-tinged secretions may obstruct the airway, so suctioning is the next appropriate action. Then the wound drain should be drained because the 200 mL of drainage will decrease the amount of suction in the wound drain and could lead to incisional swelling and poor healing. Finally, the NG tube should be reconnected to suction to prevent gastric dilation, nausea, and vomiting.)

The nurse assess the chest of a patient with pneumococcal pneumonia. Which finding would the nurse expect. a. Increased tactile fremitus b. Dry, nonproductive cough c. Hyperresonance to percussion d. A grating sound on auscultation

A. increased tactile fremitus rationale: Increased tactile fremitus over the area of pulmonary consolidation is expected with bacterial pneumonias.

The clinic nurse teaches a patient with a 42 pack year history of cigarette smoking about lung disease. Which information will be most important for the nurse to include. a. options for smoking cessation b. reasons for annual sputum cytology testing c. Erlotinib (Tarceva) therapy to prevent tumor risk d. Computed tomography (CT) screening for lung cancer.

A. options for smoking cessation

An older patient is receiving standard multidrug therapy for TB. The nurse should notify the HCP if the patient exhibits which finding. a. Yellow-tinged skin b. Orange colored sputum c. Thickening of the fingernails. d. Difficulty hearing high-pitched voices.

A. yellow-tinged skin rationale: noninfectious hepatitis is a toxic effect of isoniazid (INH), rifampin, and pyrazinamide, and patients who develop hepatotoxicity will need to use other medications.

The nurse is caring for a patient with cor pulmonale. The nurse should monitor the patient for which expected finding? a. Chest pain c. Peripheral edema b. Finger clubbing d. Elevated temperature

C Cor pulmonale causes clinical manifestations of right ventricular failure, such as peripheral edema. The other clinical manifestations may occur in the patient with other complications of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease but are not indicators of cor pulmonale.

Which assessment finding in a patient who has received omalizumab (Xolair) is most important to report immediately to the health care provider? a. Pain at injection site b. Flushing and dizziness c. Peak flow reading 75% of normal d. Respiratory rate 24 breaths/minute

B Flushing and dizziness may indicate that the patient is experiencing an anaphylactic reaction, and immediate intervention is needed. The other information should also be reported, but do not indicate possibly life-threatening complications of omalizumab therapy.

Which finding by the nurse for a patient with a nursing diagnosis of impaired gas exchange will be most useful in evaluating the effectiveness of treatment? a. Even, unlabored respirations b. Pulse oximetry reading of 92% c. Absence of wheezes or crackles d. Respiratory rate of 18 breaths/min

B For the nursing diagnosis of impaired gas exchange, the best data for evaluation are arterial blood gases (ABGs) or pulse oximetry. The other data may indicate either improvement or impending respiratory failure caused by fatigue.

The nurse provides dietary teaching for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who has a low body mass index (BMI). Which patient statement indicates that the teaching has been effective? a. "I will drink lots of fluids with my meals." b. "I can have ice cream as a snack every day." c. "I will exercise for 15 minutes before meals." d. "I will decrease my intake of meat and poultry."

B High-calorie foods such as ice cream are an appropriate snack for patients with COPD. Fluid intake of 3 L/day is recommended, but fluids should be taken between meals rather than with meals to improve oral intake of solid foods. The patient should avoid exercise for an hour before meals to prevent fatigue while eating. Meat and dairy products are high in protein and are good choices for the patient with COPD.

Which nursing action could the registered nurse (RN) working in a skilled care hospital unit delegate to an experienced licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN) caring for a patient with a permanent tracheostomy? a. Assess the patient's risk for aspiration. b. Suction the tracheostomy when directed. c. Teach the patient to provide tracheostomy self-care. d. Determine the need for tracheostomy tube replacement.

B (Suctioning of a stable patient can be delegated to LPNs/LVNs. Patient assessment and patient teaching should be done by the RN.)

The nurse obtains the following assessment data on an older patient who has influenza. Which information will be most important for the nurse to communicate to the health care provider? a. Fever of 100.4° F (38° C) b. Diffuse crackles in the lungs c. Sore throat and frequent cough d. Myalgia and persistent headache

B (The crackles indicate that the patient may be developing pneumonia, a common complication of influenza, which would require aggressive treatment. Myalgia, headache, mild temperature elevation, and sore throat with cough are typical manifestations of influenza and are treated with supportive care measures such as over-the-counter pain relievers and increased fluid intake.)

When assessing a patient with a sore throat, the nurse notes anterior cervical lymph node swelling, a temperature of 101.6° F (38.7° C), and yellow patches on the tonsils. Which action will the nurse anticipate taking? a. Teach the patient about the use of expectorants. b. Use a swab to obtain a sample for a rapid strep antigen test. c. Discuss the need to rinse the mouth out after using any inhalers. d. Teach the patient to avoid nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

B (The patient's clinical manifestations are consistent with streptococcal pharyngitis, and the nurse will anticipate the need for a rapid strep antigen test or cultures (or both). Because patients with streptococcal pharyngitis usually do not have a cough, use of expectorants will not be anticipated. Rinsing out the mouth after inhaler use may prevent fungal oral infections, but the patient's assessment data are not consistent with a fungal infection. NSAIDs are frequently prescribed for pain and fever relief with pharyngitis.)

The nurse receives a change-of-shift report on the following patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which patient should the nurse assess first? a. A patient with loud expiratory wheezes b. A patient with a respiratory rate of 38 breaths/min c. A patient who has a cough productive of thick, green mucus d. A patient with jugular venous distention and peripheral edema

B A respiratory rate of 38/min indicates severe respiratory distress, and the patient needs immediate assessment and intervention to prevent possible respiratory arrest. The other patients also need assessment as soon as possible, but they do not need to be assessed as urgently as the patient with tachypnea.

A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has coarse crackles throughout the lung fields and a chronic, nonproductive cough. Which nursing intervention will be most effective? a. Change the O2 flow rate to the highest prescribed rate. b. Teach the patient to use the Flutter airway clearance device. c. Reinforce the ongoing use of pursed-lip breathing techniques. d. Teach the patient about consistent use of inhaled corticosteroids.

B Airway clearance devices assist with moving mucus into larger airways, where it can more easily be expectorated. The other actions may be appropriate for some patients with COPD, but they are not indicated for this patient's problem of thick mucus secretions.

A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has poor gas exchange. Which action by the nurse would support the patient's ventilation? a. Have the patient rest in bed with the head elevated to 15 to 20 degrees. b. Encourage the patient to sit up at the bedside in a chair and lean forward. c. Ask the patient to rest in bed in a high-Fowler's position with the knees flexed. d. Place the patient in the Trendelenburg position with pillows behind the head.

B Patients with COPD improve the mechanics of breathing by sitting up in the "tripod" position. Resting in bed with the head elevated in a semi-Fowler's position would be an alternative position if the patient was confined to bed, but sitting in a chair allows better ventilation. The Trendelenburg position or sitting upright in bed with the knees flexed would decrease the patient's ability to ventilate well.

The home health nurse is visiting a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which nursing action is appropriate to implement for a nursing diagnosis of impaired breathing pattern related to anxiety? a. Titrate O2 to keep saturation at least 90%. b. Teach the patient how to use pursed-lip breathing. c. Discuss a high-protein, high-calorie diet with the patient. d. Suggest the use of over-the-counter sedative medications.

B Pursed-lip breathing techniques assist in prolonging the expiratory phase of respiration and decrease air trapping. There is no indication that the patient requires O2 therapy or an improved diet. Sedative medications should be avoided because they decrease respiratory drive.

A patient is receiving 35% O2 via a Venturi mask. To ensure the correct amount of O2 delivery, which action by the nurse is important? a. Teach the patient to keep the mask on during meals. b. Keep the air entrainment ports clean and unobstructed. c. Give a high enough flow rate to keep the bag from collapsing. d. Drain moisture condensation from the corrugated tubing every hour.

B The air entrainment ports regulate the O2 percentage delivered to the patient, so they must be unobstructed. The other options refer to other types of O2 devices. A high O2 flow rate is needed when giving O2by partial rebreather or nonrebreather masks. Draining O2 tubing is necessary when caring for a patient receiving mechanical ventilation. The mask can be removed or changed to a nasal cannula at a prescribed setting when the patient eats.

The nurse is admitting a patient diagnosed with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). How should the nurse determine the appropriate O2 flow rate? a. Minimize O2 use to avoid O2 dependency. b. Maintain the pulse oximetry level at 90% or greater. c. Administer O2 according to the patient's level of dyspnea. d. Avoid administration of O2 at a rate of more than 2 L/min.

B The best way to determine the appropriate O2 flow rate is by monitoring the patient's oxygenation either by arterial blood gases (ABGs) or pulse oximetry. An O2 saturation of 90% indicates adequate blood O2 level without the danger of suppressing the respiratory drive. For patients with an exacerbation of COPD, an O2 flow rate of 2 L/min may not be adequate. Because O2 use improves survival rate in patients with COPD, there is no concern about O2 dependency. The patient's perceived dyspnea level may be affected by other factors (e.g., anxiety) besides blood O2 level.

The emergency department nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of therapy for a patient who has received treatment during an asthma attack. Which assessment finding is the best indicator that the therapy has been effective? a. No wheezes are audible. b. O2saturation is >90%. c. Accessory muscle use has decreased. d. Respiratory rate is 16 breaths/minute.

B The goal for treatment of an asthma attack is to keep the O2 saturation above 90%. The other patient data may occur when the patient is too fatigued to continue with the increased work of breathing required in an asthma attack.

The nurse teaches a patient about pursed-lip breathing. Which action by the patient would indicate to the nurse that further teaching is needed? a. The patient inhales slowly through the nose. b. The patient puffs up the cheeks while exhaling. c. The patient practices by blowing through a straw. d. The patient's ratio of inhalation to exhalation is 1:3.

B The patient should relax the facial muscles without puffing the cheeks while doing pursed-lip breathing. The other actions by the patient indicate a good understanding of pursed-lip breathing.

The clinic nurse makes a follow-up telephone call to a patient with asthma. The patient reports having a baseline peak flow reading of 600 L/min, and the current peak flow is 420 L/min. Which action should the nurse take first? a. Tell the patient to go to the hospital emergency department. b. Instruct the patient to use the prescribed albuterol (Ventolin HFA). c. Ask about recent exposure to any new allergens or asthma triggers. d. Question the patient about use of the prescribed inhaled corticosteroids.

B The patient's peak flow is 70% of normal, indicating a need for immediate use of short-acting b2 -adrenergic SABA medications. Assessing for correct use of medications or exposure to allergens is also appropriate, but would not address the current decrease in peak flow. Because the patient is currently in the yellow zone, hospitalization is not needed.

A patient with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) tells the nurse, "I wish I were dead! I'm just a burden on everybody." Based on this information, which nursing diagnosis is most appropriate? a. Complicated grieving related to expectation of death b. Chronic low self-esteem related to physical dependence c. Ineffective coping related to unknown outcome of illness d. Deficient knowledge related to lack of education about COPD

B The patient's statement about not being able to do anything for himself or herself supports this diagnosis. Although deficient knowledge, complicated grieving, and ineffective coping may also be appropriate diagnoses for patients with COPD, the data for this patient do not support these diagnoses.

A patient has just been admitted with probable bacterial pneumonia and sepsis. Which order should the nurse implement first. a. Chest x-ray via stretcher. b. blood cultures from two sites c. ciprofloxacin (Cipro) 400 mg IV d. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) rectal suppository.

B. blood cultures from two sites rationale: cultures should be obtained before antibiotic therapy.

The nurse cares for a patient who has had a thoracentesis. Which assessment information obtained by the nurse is a priority to communicate to the HCP. a. Oxygen sat is 88% b. Blood pressure is 145/90 mm Hg c. RR is 22 breaths/min when lying flat. d. Pain level is 5 with deep breath

a. oxygen sat is 88%. rationale: oxygen sat would be expected to improve after a thoracentesis.

A patient with a tracheostomy has a new order for a fenestrated tracheostomy tube. Which action should the nurse include in the plan of care in collaboration with the speech therapist? a. Leave the tracheostomy inner cannula inserted at all times. b. Place the decannulation cap in the tube before cuff deflation. c. Assess the ability to swallow before using the fenestrated tube. d. Inflate the tracheostomy cuff during use of the fenestrated tube.

C (Because the cuff is deflated when using a fenestrated tube, the patient's risk for aspiration should be assessed before changing to a fenestrated tracheostomy tube. The decannulation cap is never inserted before cuff deflation because to do so would obstruct the patient's airway. The cuff is deflated and the inner cannula removed to allow air to flow across the patient's vocal cords when using a fenestrated tube.)

A patient who had a total laryngectomy has a nursing diagnosis of hopelessness related to loss of control of personal care. Which information obtained by the nurse indicates that this identified problem is resolving? a. The patient allows the nurse to suction the tracheostomy. b. The patient's spouse provides the daily tracheostomy care. c. The patient asks how to clean the tracheostomy stoma and tube. d. The patient uses a communication board to request "No Visitors."

C (Independently caring for the laryngectomy tube indicates that the patient has regained control of personal care and hopelessness is at least partially resolved. Letting the nurse and spouse provide care and requesting no visitors may indicate that the patient is still experiencing hopelessness.)

After a laryngectomy, a patient coughs violently during suctioning and dislodges the tracheostomy tube. Which action should the nurse take first? a. Arrange for arterial blood gases to be drawn immediately. b. Cover stoma with sterile gauze and ventilate through stoma. c. Attempt to reinsert the tracheostomy tube with the obturator in place. d. Assess the patient's oxygen saturation and notify the health care provider.

C (The first action should be to attempt to reinsert the tracheostomy tube to maintain the patient's airway. Covering the stoma with a dressing and manually ventilating the patient may be an appropriate action if the nurse is unable to reinsert the tracheostomy tube. Assessing the patient's oxygenation is an important action, but it is not as appropriate until there is an established airway.)

A nurse is caring for a patient who has had a total laryngectomy and radical neck dissection. During the first 24 hours after surgery what is the priority nursing action? a. Monitor the incision for bleeding. b. Maintain adequate IV fluid intake. c. Keep the patient in semi-Fowler's position. d. Teach the patient to suction the tracheostomy.

C (The most important goals after a laryngectomy and radical neck dissection are to maintain the airway and ensure adequate oxygenation. Keeping the patient in a semi-Fowler's position will decrease edema and limit tension on the suture lines to help ensure an open airway. Maintenance of IV fluids and monitoring for bleeding are important, but maintaining an open airway is the priority. During the immediate postoperative period, the patient with a laryngectomy requires frequent suctioning of the tracheostomy tube. The patient may be taught to suction after the tracheostomy is stable, if needed, but not during the immediate postoperative period.)

The nurse has just auscultated coarse crackles bilaterally on a patient with a tracheostomy tube in place. If the patient is unsuccessful in coughing up secretions, what action should the nurse take? a. Encourage increased incentive spirometer use. b. Encourage the patient to increase oral fluid intake. c. Put on sterile gloves and use a sterile catheter to suction. d. Preoxygenate the patient for 3 minutes before suctioning.

C (This patient needs suctioning now to secure a patent airway. Sterile gloves and a sterile catheter are used when suctioning a tracheostomy. Preoxygenation for 3 minutes is not necessary; 30 seconds is recommended. Incentive spirometer use opens alveoli and can induce coughing, which can mobilize secretions. However, the patient with a tracheostomy may not be able to use an incentive spirometer. Increasing oral fluid intake would not moisten and help mobilize secretions in a timely manner.)

The nurse interviews a patient with a new diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which information is most specific in confirming a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis? a. The patient tells the nurse about a family history of bronchitis. b. The patient indicates a 30 pack-year cigarette smoking history. c. The patient reports a productive cough for 3 months every winter. d. The patient denies having respiratory problems until the past 12 months.

C A diagnosis of chronic bronchitis is based on a history of having a productive cough for 3 months for at least 2 consecutive years. There is no family tendency for chronic bronchitis. Although smoking is the major risk factor for chronic bronchitis, a smoking history does not confirm the diagnosis.

The nurse teaches a patient how to administer formoterol (Perforomist) through a nebulizer. Which action by the patient indicates good understanding of the teaching? a. The patient attaches a spacer before using the inhaler. b. The patient coughs vigorously after using the inhaler. c. The patient removes the facial mask when misting stops. d. The patient activates the inhaler at the onset of expiration.

C A nebulizer is used to administer aerosolized medication. A mist is seen when the medication is aerosolized, and when all of the medication has been used, the misting stops. The other options refer to inhaler use. Coughing vigorously after inhaling and activating the inhaler at the onset of expiration are both incorrect techniques when using an inhaler.

Postural drainage with percussion and vibration is ordered twice daily for a patient with chronic bronchitis. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care? a. Schedule the procedure 1 hour after the patient eats. b. Maintain the patient in the lateral position for 20 minutes. c. Give the prescribed albuterol (Ventolin HFA) before the therapy. d. Perform percussion before assisting the patient to the drainage position.

C Bronchodilators are administered before chest physiotherapy. Postural drainage, percussion, and vibration should be done 1 hour before or 3 hours after meals. Patients remain in each postural drainage position for 5 minutes. Percussion is done while the patient is in the postural drainage position.

A patient is scheduled for spirometry. Which action should the nurse take to prepare the patient for this procedure? a. Give the rescue medication immediately before testing. b. Administer oral corticosteroids 2 hours before the procedure. c. Withhold bronchodilators for 6 to 12 hours before the examination. d. Ensure that the patient has been NPO for several hours before the test.

C Bronchodilators are held before spirometry so that a baseline assessment of airway function can be determined. Testing is repeated after bronchodilator use to determine whether the decrease in lung function is reversible. There is no need for the patient to be NPO. Oral corticosteroids should be held before spirometry. Rescue medications (which are bronchodilators) would not be given until after the baseline pulmonary function was assessed.

The nurse is caring for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which information obtained from the patient would prompt the nurse to consult with the health care provider before administering the prescribed theophylline? a. The patient reports a recent 15-lb weight gain. b. The patient denies shortness of breath at present. c. The patient takes cimetidine (Tagamet HB) daily. d. The patient complains of coughing up green mucus.

C Cimetidine interferes with the metabolism of theophylline, and concomitant administration may lead rapidly to theophylline toxicity. The other patient information would not affect whether the theophylline should be administered or not.

A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a nursing diagnosis of imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements. Which intervention would be most appropriate for the nurse to include in the plan of care? a. Encourage increased intake of whole grains. b. Increase the patient's intake of fruits and fruit juices. c. Offer high-calorie protein snacks between meals and at bedtime. d. Assist the patient in choosing foods with high vegetable content.

C Eating small amounts more frequently (as occurs with snacking) will increase caloric intake by decreasing the fatigue and feelings of fullness associated with large meals. Patients with COPD should rest before meals. Foods that have a lot of texture such as whole grains may take more energy to eat and get absorbed and lead to decreased intake. Although fruits, juices, and minerals are not contraindicated, foods high in protein are a better choice.

A patient newly diagnosed with asthma is being discharged. The nurse anticipates including which topic in the discharge teaching? a. Use of long-acting b-adrenergic medications b. Side effects of sustained-release theophylline c. Self-administration of inhaled corticosteroids d. Complications associated with O2 therapy

C Inhaled corticosteroids are more effective in improving asthma than any other drug and are indicated for all patients with persistent asthma. The other therapies would not typically be first-line treatments for newly diagnosed asthma.

A 55-yr-old patient with increasing dyspnea is being evaluated for a possible diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). When teaching a patient about pulmonary spirometry for this condition, what is the most important question the nurse should ask? a. "Are you claustrophobic?" b. "Are you allergic to shellfish?" c. "Have you taken any bronchodilators today?" d. "Do you have any metal implants or prostheses?"

C Spirometry will help establish the COPD diagnosis. Bronchodilators should be avoided at least 6 hours before the test. Spirometry does not involve being placed in an enclosed area such as for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Contrast dye is not used for spirometry. The patient may still have spirometry done if metal implants or prostheses are present because they are contraindications for an MRI.

A patient seen in the asthma clinic has recorded daily peak flow rates that are 75% of the baseline. Which action will the nurse plan to take next? a. Increase the dose of the leukotriene inhibitor. b. Teach the patient about the use of oral corticosteroids. c. Administer a bronchodilator and recheck the peak flow. d. Instruct the patient to keep the scheduled follow-up appointment.

C The patient's peak flow reading indicates that the condition is worsening (yellow zone). The patient should take the bronchodilator and recheck the peak flow. Depending on whether the patient returns to the green zone, indicating well-controlled symptoms, the patient may be prescribed oral corticosteroids or a change in dosing of other medications. Keeping the next appointment is appropriate, but the patient also needs to be taught how to control symptoms now and use the bronchodilator.

A patient hospitalized with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is being discharged home on O2 therapy. Which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching? a. Travel is not possible with the use of O2 devices. b. O2 flow should be increased if the patient has more dyspnea. c. O2 use can improve the patient's prognosis and quality of life. d. Storage of O2 requires large metals tanks that each last 4 to 6 hours.

C The use of home O2 improves quality of life and prognosis. Because increased dyspnea may be a symptom of an acute process such as pneumonia, the patient should notify the health care provider rather than increasing the O2 flow rate if dyspnea becomes worse. O2 can be supplied using liquid, storage tanks, or concentrators, depending on individual patient circumstances. Travel is possible using portable O2 concentrators.

Which instruction should the nurse include in an exercise teaching plan for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? a. "Avoid upper body exercise to prevent dyspnea." b. "Stop exercising if you start to feel short of breath." c. "Use the bronchodilator before you start to exercise." d. "Breathe in and out through the mouth while you exercise."

C Use of a bronchodilator before exercise improves airflow for some patients and is recommended. Shortness of breath is normal with exercise and not a reason to stop. Patients should be taught to breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth (using a pursed-lip technique). Upper-body exercise can improve the mechanics of breathing in patients with COPD.

The nurse assesses a patient with a history of asthma. Which assessment finding indicates that the nurse should take immediate action? a. Pulse oximetry reading of 91% b. Respiratory rate of 26 breaths/min c. Use of accessory muscles in breathing d. Peak expiratory flow rate of 240 L/min

C Use of accessory muscle indicates that the patient is experiencing respiratory distress, and rapid intervention is needed. The other data indicate the need for ongoing monitoring and assessment but do not suggest that immediate treatment is required.

The nurse takes an admission history on a patient with possible asthma who has new-onset wheezing and shortness of breath. Which information may indicate a need for a change in therapy? a. The patient has chronic inflammatory bowel disease. b. The patient has a history of pneumonia 6 months ago. c. The patient takes propranolol (Inderal) for hypertension. d. The patient uses acetaminophen (Tylenol) for headaches.

C b-Blockers such as propranolol can cause bronchospasm in some patients with asthma. The other information will be documented in the health history but does not indicate a need for a change in therapy.

A patient is diagnosed with both HIV and active TB. Which information obtained by the nurse is most important to communicate to the HCP. a. The mantoux test had an induration of 7mm b. The chest x-ray showed infiltrates in the lower lobes. c. The patient is being treated with antiretrovirals for HIV infection d. The patient has a cough that is productive of blood-tinged mucus.

C. the patient is being treated with antiretrovirals for HIV rationale: drug interactions can occur between the antiretrovirals used to treat HIV and the meds for TB.

The nurse teaches a patient who has asthma about peak flow meter use. Which action by the patient indicates that teaching was successful? a. The patient inhales rapidly through the peak flow meter mouthpiece. b. The patient takes montelukast (Singulair) for peak flows in the red zone. c. The patient calls the health care provider when the peak flow is in the green zone. d. The patient uses an albuterol (Ventolin HFA) inhaler for peak flows in the yellow zone.

D Readings in the yellow zone indicate a decrease in peak flow. The patient should use short-acting b2-adrenergic (SABA) medications. Readings in the green zone indicate good asthma control. The patient should exhale quickly and forcefully through the peak flow meter mouthpiece to obtain the readings. Readings in the red zone do not indicate good peak flow, and the patient should take a fast-acting bronchodilator and call the health care provider for further instructions. Singulair is not indicated for acute attacks but rather is used for maintenance therapy.

The nurse develops a teaching plan to help increase activity tolerance at home for an older adult with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which instructions would be appropriate for the nurse to include in the plan of care? a. Stop exercising when you feel short of breath. b. Walk until pulse rate exceeds 130 beats/minute. c. Limit exercise to activities of daily living (ADLs). d. Walk 15 to 20 minutes a day at least 3 times/week.

D Encourage the patient to walk 15 to 20 minutes a day at least three times a week with gradual increases. Shortness of breath is normal with exercise and not an indication that the patient should stop. Limiting exercise to ADLs will not improve the patient's exercise tolerance. A 70-yr-old patient should have a pulse rate of 120 beats/min or less with exercise (80% of the maximal heart rate of 150 beats/min ).

The nurse completes an admission assessment on a patient with asthma. Which information given by patient is indicates a need for a change in therapy? a. The patient uses albuterol (Ventolin HFA) before aerobic exercise. b. The patient says that the asthma symptoms are worse every spring. c. The patient's heart rate increases after using the albuterol (Ventolin HFA) inhaler. d. The patient's only medications are albuterol (Ventolin HFAl) and salmeterol (Serevent).

D Long-acting b2-agonists should be used only in patients who also are using an inhaled corticosteroid for long-term control. Salmeterol should not be used as the first-line therapy for long-term control. Using a bronchodilator before exercise is appropriate. The other information given by the patient requires further assessment by the nurse but is not unusual for a patient with asthma.

Which information will the nurse include in the asthma teaching plan for a patient being discharged? a. Use the inhaled corticosteroid when shortness of breath occurs. b. Inhale slowly and deeply when using the dry powder inhaler (DPI). c. Hold your breath for 5 seconds after using the bronchodilator inhaler. d. Tremors are an expected side effect of rapidly acting bronchodilators.

D Tremors are a common side effect of short-acting b2-adrenergic (SABA) medications and not a reason to avoid using the SABA inhaler. Inhaled corticosteroids do not act rapidly to reduce dyspnea. Rapid inhalation is needed when using a DPI. The patient should hold the breath for 10 seconds after using inhalers.

Following assessment of a patient with pneumonia, the nurse identifies a nursing diagnosis of ineffective airway clearance. Which assessment data best supports this diagnosis. a. Weak, nonproductive cough effort b. Large amounts of greenish sputum c. Respiratory rate of 28 breaths/min d. Resting pulse oximetry (SpO2) of 85%

a. weak, nonproductive cough effort.

The nurse administers prescribed therapies for a patient with cor pulmonale and right sided heart failure. Which assessment would best evaluate the effectiveness of the therapies. a. Observe for distended neck veins b. auscultate for crackles in the lungs c. palpate for heaves or thrills over the heart. d. Review hemoglobin and hematocrit values.

a. observe for distended neck veins rationale: cor pulmonale is right ventricular failure caused by pulmonary hypertension, so clinical manifestations of right ventricular failure such as peripheral edema, jugular venous distention, and right upper quadrant abdominal tenderness would be expected.

which factors will the nurse consider when calculating the CURB-65 score for a patient with pneumonia. Select all. a. age b. blood pressure c. respiratory rate d. oxygen saturation e. presence of confusion f. blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level

a, b, c, e, f

A patient with bacterial pneumonia has rhonchi and thick sputum. What is the nurses most appropriate action to promote airway clearance. a. assist the patient to splint the chest when coughing. b. teach the patient about the need for fluid restrictions. c. Encourage the patient to wear nasal oxygen cannula. d. Instruct the patient on the pursed lip breathing technique.

a. assist the patient to splint the chest when coughing. rationale: Coughing is less painful and more likely to be effective when the patient splints the chest during coughing.

A patient who was admitted the previous day with pneumonia complains of a sharp pain of 7 "whenever I take a deep breath". Which action will the nurse take next. a. Auscultate breath sounds b. Administer the PRN morphine c. have the patient cough forcefully d. Notify the HCP.

a. auscultate breath sounds rationale: assessment occurs before the administration of pain meds.

The nurse is caring for a patient who has right sided chest tube after right lower lobectomy. Which nursing action can the nurse delegate to the UAP? a. Document the amount of drainage every 8 hours. b. obtain samples of drainage for culture from the system c. assess patient pain level associated with the chest tube d. check the water seal chamber for the correct fluid level

a. document the amount of drainage every 8 hours.

The nurse monitors a patient after chest tube placement for a hemopneumothorax. The nurse is most concerned if which assessment finding is observed. a. a large air leak in the water seal chamber b. 400 mL of blood in the collection chamber c. complaint of pain with each deep inspiration d. subcutaneous emphysema at the insertion site.

b. 400 mL of blood in the collection chamber rationale: the large amount of blood may indicate that the patient is in danger of developing hypoveolemic shock.

The nurse provides discharge instructions to a patient who was hospitalized for pneumonia. Which statement, if made by the patient, indicates a good understanding of the instructions. a. I will call the doctor if I still feel tired after a week b. I will continue to do the deep breathing and coughing exercises at home c. I will schedule two appointments for the pneumonia and influenza vaccines. d. I'll cancel my chest x-ray appointment if Im feeling better in a couple weeks.

b. I will continue to do the deep breathing and coughing exercises at home. rationale: patients should continue to cough and deep breathe after discharge.

The nurse receives change of shift report on the following four patients. Which patient should the nurse assess first. a. A 23 yr old patient with cystic fibrosis who has pulmonary function testing scheduled. b. a 46 year old patient on bed rest who is complaining of sudden onset of SOB c. A 77 year old patient with TB who has four antitubercular medications due in 15 mins. d. A 35 yr old patient who was admitted the previous day with pneumonia and has a temp of 100.2

b. a 46 yr old patient on bed rest who is complaining of sudden onset of SOB

When caring for a patient who is hospitalized with active TB, the nurse observes a student nurse who is assigned to take care of a patient. Which action, if performed by the student nurse, would require intervention by the nurse. a. The patient is offered a tissue from the box at the bedside. b. a surgical face mask is applied before visiting the patient c. a snack is brought to the patient from the unit refrigerator d. Hand washing is performed before entering the patients room

b. a surgical face mask is applied before visiting the patient

After 2 months of TB treatment with isoniazid, rifampin, pyrasinamide, and ethambutol, a patient continues to have positive sputum smears for acid fast bacilli. Which action should the nurse take next. a. teach about treatment for drug resistant TB treatment. b. ask the patient whether medications have been taken as directed. c. Schedule the patient for directly observed therapy three times weekly d. Discuss with the HCP the need for the patient to use an injectable antibiotic.

b. ask the patient whether medications have been taken as directed. rationale: the first action should be to determine whether the patient has been compliant with drug therapy.

A patient with newly diagnosed lung cancer tells the nurse, "I dont think Im going to live to see my next birthday." Which response by the nurse is best. a. Would you like to talk to the hospital chaplain about your feelings. b. Can you tell me what it is that makes you think you will die so soon c. Are you afraid that the treatment for your cancer will not be effective. d. Do you think that taking an antidepressant medication would be helpful

b. can you tell me what it is that makes you think you will die so soon

The nurse teaches a patient about the transmission of pulmonary TB. Which statement, if made by the patient, indicates that teaching was effective. a. I will avoid being outdoors whenever possible b. My husband will be sleeping in the guest bedroom. c. I will take the bus instead of driving to visit my friends. d. I will keep the windows closed at home to contain the germs.

b. my husband will be sleeping in the guest room.

The nurse develops a plan of care to prevent aspiration in a high-risk patient. Which nursing action will be most effective. a. Turn and reposition immobile patients at least every 2 hours. b. Place patients with altered consciousness in side-lying positions. c. Monitor for respiratory symptoms in patients who are immunosuppressed. d. Insert nasogastric tube for feedings for patients with swallowing problems.

b. place patients with altered consciousness in side-lying positions. rationale: The risk for aspiration is decreased when patients with a decreased level of consciousness are place in side-lying or upright position.

An experienced nurse instructs a new nurse about how to care for a patient with dyspnea caused by a pulmonary fungal infection. Which action by the new nurse indicates a need for further teaching. a. listening to the patient's lung sounds several times during the shift. b. placing the patient on droplet precautions and in a private hospital room c. increasing the oxygen flow rate to keep the oxygen sat above 90% d. monitoring patient serology results to identify the specific infecting organism.

b. placing the patient on droplet precautions and in a private hospital room rationale: fungal infections are not transmitted from person to person

A patient with a pleural effusion is scheduled for a thoracentesis. Which action should the nurse take to prepare the patient for the procedure. a. Start a peripheral IV line to administer the necessary sedative drugs b. Position the patient sitting upright on the edge of the bed leaning forward. c. Obtain a large collection device to hold 2 to 3 liters of pleural fluid. d. Remove the water pitcher and remind the patient not to eat or drink anything for 6 hours.

b. position the patient sitting upright on the edge of the bed and leaning forward.

A patient with right lower lobe pneumonia has been treated with IV antibiotics for 3 days. Which assessment data obtained by the nurse indicates that the treatment has been effective. a. Bronchial breath sounds are heard at the right base. b. The patient coughs up small amounts of green mucus. c. The patients WBC is 9000 u/L d. Increased tactile fremitus is palpable over the right chest.

c. The patients WBC is 9000. (Normal)

A patient has acute bronchitis with a non productive cough and wheezes. Which topic should the nurse plan to include in the teaching plan. a. Purpose of antibiotic therapy b. ways to limit oral fluid intake c. appropriate use of cough suppressants d. safety concerns with home oxygen therapy

c. appropriate use of cough suppressants

A patient who is taking rifampin (rifadin) for TB calls the clinic and reports having orange discolored urine and tears. Which is the best response by the nurse a. Ask if the patient is experiencing shortness of breath, hives, or itching. b. Ask the patient about any visual abnormalities such as red-green color discrimination. c. Explain that orange discolored urine and tears are normal while taking this medication d. Advise the patient to stop the drug and report the symptoms to the HCP

c. explain that orange discolored urine and tears are normal while taking this medication.

The nurse provides preoperative instruction for a patient scheduled for a left pneumonectomy for cancer of the lung. Which information should the nurse include about the patients postoperative care. a. positioning on the right side. b. bed rest for the first 24 hours c. frequent use of an incentive spirometer d. Chest tube placement with continuous drainage.

c. frequent use of an incentive spirometer. rationale: frequent deep breathing and coughing are needed after chest surgery to prevent atelectasis.

The nurse notes that a patient has incisional pain, a poor cough effort, and scattered rhonchi after thoractomy. Which action should the nurse take first a. Assist the patient to sit upright in a chair. b. Splint the patients chest during coughing. c. Medicate the patient with prescribed morphine. d. Observe the patient use the incentive spirometer.

c. medicate the patient with prescribed morphine. rationale: a major reason for atelectasis and poor airway clearance in patients after chest surgery is incisional pain.

An occupational health nurse works at a manufacturing plant where there is potential exposure to inhaled dust. Which action, if recommended by the nurse, will be most helpful in reducing the incidence of lung disease. a. treat workers with pulmonary fibrosis b. teach about symptoms of lung disease c. Require the use of protective equipment d. Monitor workers for coughing and wheezing

c. require the use of protective equipment.

A patient who has right sided chest tube following a thoracotomy has continuous bubbling in the suction control chamber of the collection device. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate. a. document the presence of a large air leak b. notify the surgeon of a possible pneumothorax c. Take no further action with the collection device. d. adjust the dial on the wall regulator to decrease suction.

c. take no further action with the collection device. rationale: bubbling is expected in the suction control chamber and indicates that the suction control chamber is connected to suction.

The HCP writes an order for bacteriologic testing for a patient who has a positive tuberculosis skin test. Which action should the nurse take? a. Teach about the reason for the blood tests. b. Schedule an apt. for a chest x-ray c. Teach about the need to get sputum specimens for 2 to 3 consecutive days. d. Instruct the patient to expectorate three specimens as soon as possible.

c. teach about the need to get sputum specimens for 2 to 3 consecutive days.

Employee health test results reveal a TB skin test of 16-mm induration and a negative chest x-ray for a staff nurse working on the pulmonary unit. The nurse has no symptoms on TB. Which information should the occupational health nurse plan to teach the staff nurse. a. standard four-drug therapy for TB b. need for annual repeat TB skin testing c. Use and side effects of isoniazid d. Bacille Calmette-Guerin vaccine

c. use and side effects of isoniazid. rationale: considered latent TB.

A lobectomy is scheduled for a patient with stage 1 non-small cell lung cancer. The patient tells the nurse, "I would rather have chemotherapy than surgery." Which response by the nurse is most appropriate. a. Are you afraid that the surgery will be very painful b. Did you have bad experiences with previous surgeries c. Surgery is the treatment of choice for stage 1 lung cancer. d. Tell me what you know about the various treatments available

d. tell me what you know about the various treatments available

The nurse completes discharge teaching for a patient who has had a lung transplant. The nurse evaluates that the teaching has been effective if the patient makes which statement. a. I will make an appointment to see the doctor every year. b. I will stop taking the prednisone if I experience a dry cough. c. I will not worry if I feel a little short of breath with exercise. d. I will call the HCP right away if I develop a fever.

d. I will call the HCP right away if I develop a fever. rationale: low grade fever may indicate infection or acute rejection so the patient should notify the HCP immediately

after change of shift report, which patient should the nurse assess first a. 72 year old with cor pulmonale who has 4+ bilateral edema in his legs and feet b. 28 year old with a history of a lung transplant and a temp of 101 c. 40 year old with a pleural effusion who is complaining of severe stabbing chest pain d. 64 year old with lung cancer and tracheal deviation after subclavian catheter insertion

d. 64 year old with lung cancer and tracheal deviation after subclavian catheter insertion

the nurse provides discharge teaching for a patient who has two fractured who has two fractures ribs from an automobile accident. Which statement, if made by the patient, would indicate that teaching has been effective. a. I am going to buy a rib binder to wear during the day b. I can take shallow breaths to prevent my chest from hurting c. I should plan on taking the pain pills only at bedtime so I can sleep d. I will use the incentive spirometer every hour or two during the day.

d. I will use the incentive spirometer every hour or two during the day.

When assessing a patient who has just arrived after an automobile accident, the ED nurse notes tachycardia and absent breath sounds over the right lung. For which intervention will the nurse prepare the patient. a. Emergency pericardiocentesis b. Stabilization of the chest wall with tape c. administration of an inhaled bronchodilator d. Insertion of a chest tube with a chest drainage system

d. Insertion of a chest tube with a chest drainage system. rationale: this suggests a right-sided pneumothorax or hemothorax, which will require treatment with a chest tube and drainage.

The nurse supervises unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) who are providing care for a patient with right lower lobe pneumonia. The nurse should intervene if which action by the UAP is observed? a. UAP splint the patients chest during coughing. b. UAP assist the patient to ambulate to the bathroom c. UAP help the patient to a bedside chair for meals d. UAP lower the head of the patients bed to 15 degrees.

d. UAP lower the head of the patients bed to 15 degrees.

An alcoholic and homeless patient is diagnosed with active TB. Which intervention by the nurse will be most effective in ensuring adherence with the treatment regimen. a. Arrange for a friend to administer the medication on schedule b. Give the patient written instructions about how to take the medications. c. Teach the patient about the high risk for infecting others unless treatment is followed. d. Arrange for a daily noon meal at a community center where the drug will be administered.

d. arrange for a daily noon meal at a community center where the drug will be administered.

A patient with a possible pulmonary embolism complains of chest pain and difficulty breathing. The nurse finds a HR of 142, blood pressure of 100/60, and respirations of 42. Which action should the nurse take first. a. administer anticoagulant drug therapy. b. Notify the patients HCP c. Prepare patient for a spiral computed tomography (CT) d. Elevate the head of the bed to a semi fowlers position

d. elevate the head of the bed to a semi-fowlers position rationale: symptoms are consistent with a pulmonary embolism. elevating the bed will improve ventilation

the nurse is performing TB skin tests in a clinic that has many patients who have immigrated to the US. Which question is most important for the nurse to ask before the skin test. a. Is there any family history of TB b. how long have you lived in the US c. Do you take any over the counter medications d. have you received the bacille calmette guerin (BCG) vaccine for TB

d. have you received the BCG vaccine for TB

A patient with pneumonia has a fever of 101.4, a nonproductive cough, and an oxygen sat of 88%. The patient complains of weakness, fatigue, and needs assistance to get out of bed. Which nursing diagnosis should the nurse assign as the highest priority? a. Hyperthermia related to infectious illness. b. Impaired transfer ability related to weakness c. Ineffective airway clearance related to thick secretions. d. Impaired gas exchange related to respiratory congestion

d. impaired gas exchange related to respiratory congestion. rationale: oxygen sat indicates that all body tissues are at risk.

A patient who has just been admitted with community-aquired pneumococcal pneumonia has a temp. of 101.6º with a frequent cough and is complaining of severe pleuritic chest pain. Which prescribed medication should the nurse give first. a. Codeine b. Guaifenesin (Robitussin) c. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) d. Piperacillin/tazobactam (Zosyn)

d. piperacillin/tazobactam (Zosyn) rationale: early initiation of antibiotic therapy has been demonstrated to reduce mortality.

An hour after a thoracotomy, a patient complains of incisional pain at a level 7 and has decreased left sided breath sounds. The pleural drainage system has 100 mL of blood drainage and a large air leak. Which action is best for the nurse to take next. a. Milk the chest tube gently to remove any clots. b. Clamp the chest tube momentarily to check for the origin of the air leak. c. Assist the patient to deep breath, cough, and use the incentive spirometer. d. Set up the patient controlled analgesia (PCA) and administer the loading dose of morphine.

d. set up the patient controlled analgesia and administer the loading dose of morphine rationale: The patient is unlikely to take deep breaths or cough until the pain level is lower. A chest tube output of 100 mL is not unusual in the first hour after thoracotomy and would not require milking of the chest tube. An air leak is expected in the initial postoperative period after thoracotomy

which intervention will the nurse include in the plan of care for a patient who is diagnosed with a lung abscess. a. teach the patient to avoid the use of over the counter expectorants b. assist the patient with chest physiotherapy and postural drainage. c. notify the HCP immediately about any bloody or foul smelling sputum d. teach about the need for prolonged antibiotic therapy after discharge from the hospital

d. teach about the need for prolonged antibiotic therapy after discharge from the hospital

A patient is admitted with active TB. The nurse should question a HCP order to discontinue airborne precautions unless which assessment finding is documented. a. chest x-ray shows no upper lobe infiltrates b. TB medications have been taken for 6 months c. Mantoux testing shows an induration of 10mm d. Three sputum smears for acid-fast bacilli are negative.

d. three sputum smears for acid fast bacilli are negative