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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, crackles in the lungs can be a sign of various conditions, not just bacterial infections. Therefore, administering antibiotics is not the appropriate action based solely on the finding of crackles.
Choice B rationale
Limiting fluid intake can be beneficial for clients with certain conditions such as heart failure, but it is not the appropriate action based solely on the finding of crackles.
Choice C rationale
Initiating bedrest in semi-Fowler’s position can help improve lung expansion and ease breathing in clients with certain respiratory conditions. However, it is not the appropriate action based solely on the finding of crackles.
Choice D rationale
Crackles can sometimes be cleared by deep breathing and coughing. Repeating the auscultation after asking the client to breathe deeply and cough can help the nurse determine if the crackles are transient (cleared by coughing) or persistent.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Raised toilet seats are not a safety risk for older adults. In fact, they can help prevent falls in the bathroom by reducing the distance an individual has to move to sit down and stand up from the toilet.
Choice B rationale
Throw rugs are a safety risk for older adults. They can easily cause tripping and falling, especially if the edges are not secured.
Choice C rationale
A water heater temperature of 54.4°C (130° F) is a safety risk. Water at this temperature can cause burns, especially in older adults who may have decreased sensitivity to heat.
Choice D rationale
Bathtubs with rails are not a safety risk for older adults. Rails can provide support and stability when getting in and out of the bathtub, reducing the risk of falls.
Choice E rationale
Electric cords behind furniture are a safety risk. They can be a tripping hazard and can also pose a fire risk if they are damaged.
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