A nurse is caring for a client 1 day postoperative who has developed atelectasis. Which of the following manifestations is an expected finding for this condition?

A) Migraines:
Pseudoephedrine is not contraindicated for migraines. In fact, it is sometimes used in combination with other medications to alleviate symptoms of sinus congestion associated with migraines.

B) Diverticulitis:
Pseudoephedrine is not contraindicated for diverticulitis. However, it may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as abdominal discomfort or constipation, which could exacerbate symptoms in individuals with diverticulitis. Therefore, caution should be exercised when using pseudoephedrine in these clients.

C) Hypertension:
This is the correct answer. Pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic drug that can cause vasoconstriction and increase blood pressure. Therefore, it is contraindicated in clients with hypertension or cardiovascular disease, as it may exacerbate these conditions and increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular events such as hypertensive crisis or stroke.

D) Eczema:
Pseudoephedrine is not contraindicated for eczema. However, it may cause dryness of the skin and exacerbate existing dermatological conditions. Clients with eczema should use pseudoephedrine cautiously and monitor for any worsening of their skin condition.

A) Hypoxemia:
This is the correct answer. Atelectasis, which is the collapse or incomplete inflation of the lung, can lead to impaired gas exchange and subsequent hypoxemia. As lung volume decreases due to collapse, ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) mismatch occurs, resulting in decreased oxygenation of arterial blood. Hypoxemia is a common finding in individuals with atelectasis and may manifest as decreased oxygen saturation levels on pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas analysis.

B) Apnea:
Apnea, defined as the cessation of breathing, is not typically associated with atelectasis. While atelectasis can contribute to respiratory compromise and may result in respiratory distress, including tachypnea or increased work of breathing, it does not usually lead to complete cessation of breathing.

C) Pleural effusion:
A pleural effusion is the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space surrounding the lungs. While pleural effusion may occur concurrently with atelectasis, it is not an expected finding specifically associated with atelectasis itself. Pleural effusion may cause respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea or chest pain but is not a primary manifestation of atelectasis.

D) Dysphagia:
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is unrelated to atelectasis. While dysphagia can occur as a result of various conditions affecting the esophagus or neurological control of swallowing, it is not a typical manifestation of atelectasis. Atelectasis primarily affects the lungs and respiratory function rather than swallowing function.