A nurse is assessing a patient with respiratory acidosis.
What symptoms should the nurse anticipate?

Choice A rationale:

Prone The prone position, in which a patient lies facedown, is beneficial for patients with pneumonia as it helps shift the fluid away from the back of the lungs, allowing more air to enter. It also improves ventilation in the lungs and reduces the risk of lung collapse. However, this position is not the most effective for maximum lung expansion in pneumonia patients.

Choice B rationale:

Side-lying Lateral positioning, in which the patient lies on one side, is recommended for patients suffering from pneumonia in just one lung. In this position, the pneumatic lung is exposed to a higher blood flow, resulting in greater oxygenation levels and improved lung expansion. This position can also help prevent lung injury by helping regulate pressure and improve aeration.

But again, this is not the most effective position for maximum lung expansion in pneumonia patients.

Choice C rationale:

Supine The supine position, where the patient lies flat on their back, is not the best position for a pneumonia patient. This position can cause the secretions to pool in the lungs, making it harder for the patient to breathe and potentially worsening their condition. Choice D rationale:

Upright Elevating the head of the bed is an effective way to improve lung expansion and oxygenation levels in pneumonia patients. This position also helps eliminate airway obstruction, reduces pressure on the lungs, and promotes drainage of fluids from the lungs. Therefore, the upright position is the most recommended for maximum lung expansion in pneumonia patients.

The correct answer is Choice C.

Choice A rationale: Applying four drops of developing solution to each stool specimen is incorrect. Typically, the test requires two drops of solution. Following manufacturer instructions ensures accurate results and prevents unnecessary waste or inaccurate readings.

Choice B rationale: Using toilet paper to transfer the stool specimen is improper. Stool should be collected using the provided applicator stick to avoid contamination, ensuring the accuracy of the fecal occult blood test.

Choice C rationale: Waiting 30 seconds after applying the developing solution allows the chemical reaction to complete, ensuring accurate detection of any occult blood present in the stool sample.

Choice D rationale: Collecting two stool specimens from the same area increases the risk of missing occult blood present in different parts of the stool. Sampling from multiple areas enhances test accuracy and ensures comprehensive results.