A client diagnosed with emphysema states that it is uncomfortable to sit in a semi-Fowler's position. In order to best decrease the work of breathing, the nurse should assist the client to:

Move into a side-lying position with the head elevated.

Lay in the Trendelenburg position.

Lean over the bedside table.

Sit in Fowler's position with heels off the bed.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A Reason:
A side-lying position with the head elevated may provide some comfort but is not the most effective position for reducing the work of breathing in emphysema patients. This position does not maximize lung expansion or aid in the optimal use of respiratory muscles.

Choice B Reason:
The Trendelenburg position, where the body is laid flat on the back with the feet higher than the head, is not recommended for emphysema patients as it can increase the pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing more difficult.

Choice C Reason:
Leaning over the bedside table, often referred to as the tripod position, is beneficial for emphysema patients. This position allows for the optimal use of respiratory muscles and helps to reduce the work of breathing by supporting the arms and allowing the shoulder girdle muscles to assist in the breathing process.

Choice D Reason:
Fowler's position, where the patient is seated with the legs either bent or straight out in front, may not be as effective as the tripod position for emphysema patients. While it does allow for better lung expansion than lying flat, it does not provide the same level of support for the respiratory muscles as leaning forward does.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason
While a personality disorder can present challenges in managing medications due to the complexity of the psychiatric condition, it is not typically a contraindication for the use of alprazolam. However, caution is advised as the dynamics of personality disorders can affect medication adherence and response.

Choice B Reason
Hypertension is not a direct contraindication for alprazolam. However, since alprazolam can sometimes cause changes in blood pressure, it is important for the nurse to monitor the client's blood pressure and consult with the physician if there are concerns.

Choice C Reason
Alcohol use disorder is a significant concern when prescribing alprazolam. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine, and concurrent use with substances like alcohol can increase the risk of respiratory depression, sedation, and misuse or addiction. Therefore, a history of alcohol use disorder should prompt the nurse to question the order and discuss alternative treatments with the physician.

Choice D Reason
Schizophrenia itself is not a contraindication for the use of alprazolam, but it is essential to consider the overall treatment plan for the client. Alprazolam is not a primary treatment for schizophrenia and is used for anxiety management. The nurse should ensure that the use of alprazolam does not interfere with the treatment of schizophrenia.

A. Place the client on a 35% Venturi mask. B. Encourage the client to increase liquid intake throughout the day. C. Administer dextromethorphan 30 mg PO every six hours as needed. D. Encourage pursed-lip breathing when the client is out of bed.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice a reason:
Placing the client on a 35% Venturi mask would provide a controlled amount of oxygen which is beneficial for clients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who may retain carbon dioxide. However, this intervention is not directly related to the management of a non-productive cough and difficulty expectorating secretions.

Choice b reason:
Encouraging the client to increase liquid intake throughout the day can help thin the bronchial secretions, making them easier to expectorate. Adequate hydration is essential in the management of chronic bronchitis to help clear mucus from the airways.

Choice c reason:
Administering dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant, may be used to control a non-productive cough. However, it would not assist with the expectoration of secretions and could potentially inhibit the cough reflex needed to clear the airways.

Choice d reason:
Encouraging pursed-lip breathing can help improve ventilation and oxygenation by promoting more effective exhalation. This technique can be beneficial for clients with COPD but does not directly address the issue of expectorating secretions.

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A client diagnosed with emphysema states that it is uncomfortable to sit in a semi-Fowler's position. In order to best decrease the work of breathing, the nurse should assist the client to:

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client is prescribed alprazolam for acute anxiety. What client history should cause a nurse to question this order?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with chronic bronchitis has a non-productive cough, rhonchi in bilateral lung fields, and difficulty expectorating the secretions. Which intervention should the nurse incorporate into the plan of care?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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