A client who has had a laryngectomy and tracheostomy frequently expectorates copious amounts of purulent secretions.
When changing the ties of the tracheostomy tube, which action is most important for the nurse to take?
Leave the old ties in place until the new ones are secure.
Secure tracheostomy ties by making knots close to the tube.
Remove ties to secure a disposable, soft foam collar with self-adhesive fastening.
Place knots of the ties laterally to prevent irritation and pressure.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Maintains airway patency: Leaving the old ties in place until the new ones are secure ensures that the tracheostomy tube remains in the correct position and prevents accidental decannulation, which could obstruct the airway and lead to respiratory distress or arrest. This is the most important priority in tracheostomy care.
Prevents tube displacement: Accidental decannulation can occur during tie changes, especially in patients with copious secretions or who are restless or agitated. Keeping the old ties in place acts as a safety measure to keep the tube in position even if the new ties are not immediately secured.
Allows for adjustments: If the new ties are not tied correctly or are too tight, the old ties can be loosened or removed to make adjustments without compromising the airway.
Minimizes anxiety: Leaving the old ties in place can help to reduce anxiety in patients who are apprehensive about the tie- changing process, as it provides a sense of security and ensures that the tube will not be dislodged.
Choice B rationale:
Increases risk of skin irritation: Knots tied close to the tube can rub against the skin, causing irritation, discomfort, and potential skin breakdown, especially in patients with sensitive skin or who have copious secretions.
Impinges on blood flow: Tight knots can also constrict blood vessels, potentially impairing circulation to the skin around the tracheostomy site.
Difficult to remove in emergencies: Knots tied too close to the tube can be challenging to untie quickly in case of an emergency, such as accidental decannulation or the need to suction secretions.
Choice C rationale:
Not appropriate for all patients: Disposable, soft foam collars with self-adhesive fastening may not be suitable for patients with copious secretions, as the adhesive may not adhere well to moist skin.
May not provide adequate support: These collars may not provide the same level of support as traditional tracheostomy ties, especially in patients with active neck movement or who are at risk of accidental decannulation.
Potential for skin irritation: The adhesive on the collar can also irritate the skin around the tracheostomy site in some patients.
Choice D rationale:
May not prevent irritation: Placing knots laterally may not completely eliminate the risk of skin irritation, as the ties can still rub against the skin with neck movement or when the patient is lying down.
Could lead to accidental loosening: Knots tied laterally may be more prone to accidental loosening, especially if the patient is restless or agitated.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While some individuals with Crohn's disease may find that avoiding gluten improves their symptoms, this is not a universal recommendation.
Gluten restriction is more often indicated for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
It's important to individualize dietary recommendations based on personal triggers and sensitivities.
Choice B rationale:
An elimination diet is a systematic approach to identifying foods that may trigger or worsen Crohn's disease symptoms.
It involves removing certain foods from the diet for a period of time, typically 2-4 weeks, and then gradually reintroducing them one at a time to observe any reactions.
This process can help individuals pinpoint specific foods that contribute to their symptoms and make informed dietary choices to manage their condition.
Choice C rationale:
There is no evidence to support a general restriction of calcium and iron in individuals with Crohn's disease.
In fact, these nutrients are essential for overall health and should be consumed in adequate amounts unless a specific deficiency or intolerance is identified.
Restriction of these nutrients could lead to nutritional deficiencies.
Choice D rationale:
Fluid restriction is not a primary dietary limitation for individuals with Crohn's disease.
Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, especially during flares when fluid loss through diarrhea may be increased.
Restricting fluids could potentially lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
PaCO2 55 mm Hg on a blood gas indicates ineffective treatment. Normal PaCO2 levels range from 35-45 mm Hg.
Elevated PaCO2 (hypercapnia) suggests that the lungs are not effectively removing carbon dioxide from the body. This can be due to various factors, including:
Incomplete resolution of pneumonia Airway obstruction
Impaired respiratory muscle function
Choice B rationale:
Rhonchi in the right lung indicates ineffective treatment.
Rhonchi are coarse, rattling sounds heard in the lungs during auscultation.
They are often associated with mucus accumulation in the airways, which can occur in pneumonia.
The presence of rhonchi suggests that inflammation and mucus production persist, despite antibiotic and respiratory therapy.
Choice C rationale:
Oxygen saturation greater than 94% indicates effective treatment. Normal oxygen saturation levels are typically 95% or higher.
A saturation of 94% or above suggests that the lungs are able to effectively oxygenate the blood. This is a positive sign that the pneumonia is responding to treatment.
Choice D rationale:
Client ambulates without shortness of breath indicates effective treatment. Shortness of breath (dyspnea) is a common symptom of pneumonia.
It occurs when the lungs are unable to provide enough oxygen to the body, leading to a feeling of breathlessness.
The ability to ambulate without shortness of breath suggests that the pneumonia has improved and that the lungs are functioning more effectively.
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