A nurse is assessing an elderly patient receiving palliative care who exhibits Cheyne-Stokes respirations. Which of the following characteristics should the nurse identify as indicative of this respiratory pattern?
Rapid respirations that are unusually deep and regular.
An inability to breathe without dyspnea unless sitting upright.
Breathing ranging from very deep to very shallow with periods of apnea.
Shallow breathing alternating with periods of apnea.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Rapid respirations that are unusually deep and regular are not indicative of Cheyne-Stokes respirations. Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by periods of apnea followed by gradually increasing then decreasing tidal volumes until another period of apnea.
Choice B rationale
An inability to breathe without dyspnea unless sitting upright is not indicative of Cheyne- Stokes respirations. This is more characteristic of orthopnea, which is commonly seen in conditions like heart failure.
Choice C rationale
Breathing ranging from very deep to very shallow with periods of apnea is indicative of Cheyne-Stokes respirations. This pattern of breathing is often seen in conditions such as heart failure, stroke, or brain damage.
Choice D rationale
Shallow breathing alternating with periods of apnea is not indicative of Cheyne-Stokes respirations. In Cheyne-Stokes respirations, the pattern of breathing includes periods of apnea followed by a gradual increase and then decrease in the depth of respirations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Using a humidifier beside the bed at night may not necessarily decrease the number of apneic episodes in a client with obstructive sleep apnea. While a humidifier can help moisten the airways and may provide some relief from symptoms such as dry mouth or throat, it does not address the underlying issue of airway obstruction.
Choice B rationale
Losing weight can indeed help decrease the number of apneic episodes in a client with obstructive sleep apnea. Obesity is a major risk factor for sleep apnea, as excess fat tissue can thicken the wall of the windpipe, making it narrower and making it harder to keep open.
Therefore, losing weight can help reduce this fat and widen the airway, leading to fewer apneic episodes.
Choice C rationale
Taking a sleeping pill at night may actually worsen obstructive sleep apnea. While it might help the client fall asleep, it can also relax the muscles of the throat, which can make the airway more likely to collapse during sleep, leading to more apneic episodes.
Choice D rationale
Drinking a glass of red wine before bedtime is not recommended for a client with obstructive sleep apnea. Alcohol can relax the muscles in the throat and can disrupt the normal sleep cycle, both of which can lead to more apneic episodes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Cranberry juice is an acceptable component of a clear liquid diet. Clear liquid diets are often prescribed postoperatively as they are easy to digest and leave no residue in the digestive tract.
Choice B rationale
Lemon sherbet is not part of a clear liquid diet. It is considered part of a full liquid diet, which is more substantial and includes foods that are liquid at room temperature.
Choice C rationale
Carrot juice is not typically included in a clear liquid diet. It may contain pulp and is not clear, which is a requirement of a clear liquid diet.
Choice D rationale
Plain yogurt is not part of a clear liquid diet. It is considered a solid food and is therefore not included.
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.