A critical-care nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with pneumonia as a surgical complication. The nurse’s assessment reveals that the client has an increased work of breathing due to copious tracheobronchial secretions. What should the nurse encourage the patient to do?

Lie in a low Fowler’s or supine position

Increase oral fluids unless contraindicated

Increase activity

Call the nurse for oral suctioning as needed

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Lie in a low Fowler’s or supine position:

Lying in a low Fowler's or supine position may worsen respiratory distress and compromise oxygenation. It can reduce lung expansion and increase the work of breathing, especially in patients with pneumonia. This is not a recommended position for individuals with respiratory issues.

B. Increase oral fluids unless contraindicated:

Increasing oral fluids is generally a good practice, especially in respiratory conditions like pneumonia. It helps thin respiratory secretions, making them easier to clear. However, this alone may not address copious tracheobronchial secretions. Suctioning may be needed to effectively remove excess secretions.

C. Increase activity:

Increasing activity may be beneficial for some patients, but it might exacerbate respiratory distress in others, especially if they are already experiencing increased work of breathing. The appropriateness of increasing activity depends on the specific condition and the patient's overall stability.

D. Call the nurse for oral suctioning as needed:

This is the most appropriate choice. If the client is experiencing increased work of breathing due to copious tracheobronchial secretions, calling the nurse for oral suctioning is an intervention aimed at maintaining a clear airway and alleviating respiratory distress. Regular suctioning may be necessary to assist the client in managing secretions effectively.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. The development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Explanation: The signs and symptoms described, including crackles, orthopnea, S3 heart sound, cough with pink, frothy sputum, and low pulse oximetry, are more indicative of heart failure than COPD.

B. The development of left-sided heart failure

Explanation: This is the correct answer. The signs and symptoms, such as crackles, orthopnea, and cough with pink, frothy sputum, are characteristic of left-sided heart failure. The S3 heart sound is often associated with increased ventricular filling pressures.

C. The development of right-sided heart failure

Explanation: The presented signs and symptoms are more consistent with left-sided heart failure. Right-sided heart failure is often associated with peripheral edema, hepatomegaly, and jugular venous distension.

D. The development of cor pulmonale

Explanation: Cor pulmonale is typically associated with right-sided heart failure due to chronic lung disease. The signs and symptoms described are more indicative of left-sided heart failure.

A. Shortness of breath B. Anxiety C. Unusual fatigue D. Back pain E. Chest pain

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

A. Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath can be a symptom of a myocardial infarction in both men and women.

B. Anxiety

Anxiety can be a symptom in some cases, as individuals may feel a sense of impending doom or anxiety during an MI.

C. Unusual fatigue

Unusual fatigue, especially if it is severe or occurs with exertion, can be a symptom of a myocardial infarction.

D. Back pain

Back pain, particularly between the shoulder blades, can be a symptom of a myocardial infarction in women.

E. Chest pain

Chest pain or discomfort is a classic symptom of a myocardial infarction. While women may experience chest pain, they are also more likely than men to have atypical symptoms.

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A critical-care nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with pneumonia as a surgical complication. The nurse’s assessment reveals that the client has an increased work of breathing due to copious tracheobronchial secretions. What should the nurse encourage the patient to do?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client has a myocardial infarction in the left ventricle and develops crackles bilaterally: 3 pillow orthopnea; an S3 heart sound; and a cough with pink, frothy sputum. The nurse obtains a pulse oximetry reading of 88%. What do these signs and symptoms indicate for this client?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

An emergency department nurse is assessing an adult woman for a suspected myocardial infarction (MI). When planning the assessment, the nurse should be aware that female patients may have which of the following symptoms for an MI? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

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