A nurse in the PACU is assessing a client who has an endotracheal (ET) tube in place and observes the absence of left-sided chest wall expansion upon respiration. Which of the following complications should the nurse suspect?
Blockage of the ET tube by the client's tongue
Movement of the ET tube into the right main bronchus
Infection of the vocal cords
Passage of the ET tube into the esophagus
The Correct Answer is B
A. Blockage of the ET tube by the client's tongue would not typically result in asymmetric chest wall expansion.
B. If the ET tube has moved into the right main bronchus, it will cause more air to enter the right lung and less to the left, leading to decreased left-sided chest wall expansion.
C. Infection of the vocal cords is not related to the absence of chest wall expansion.
D. Passage of the ET tube into the esophagus would lead to the absence of breath sounds in both lungs, not just the left side.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The visibility of the eyelets on the chest tube is not a critical indicator for immediate notification unless other issues are present.
B. Movement of the trachea toward the unaffected side can indicate tension pneumothorax or other significant issues requiring immediate intervention.
C. Crepitus around the insertion site can indicate subcutaneous emphysema, which may be a complication but not an immediate emergency.
D. Bubbling in the water seal chamber during exhalation is a normal finding, as it indicates that the chest tube is functioning to allow air to escape.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. First-degree AV block shows a prolonged PR interval but not necessarily an irregular heart rate or a significant pulse deficit.
B. Atrial fibrillation is characterized by a rapid and irregular heart rate with a significant pulse deficit, which aligns with the client's symptoms.
C. Sinus tachycardia presents with a rapid but regular heart rate, not irregular palpitations.
D. Sinus bradycardia shows a slow heart rate and is not associated with an irregular heart rate or significant pulse deficit.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
