A nurse is caring for a client receiving mechanical ventilation via an endotracheal (ET) tube. The high-pressure alarm is beeping, and the client is experiencing respiratory distress. The nurse is unable to determine the cause of the alarm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Re-evaluate the client for an ET cuff leak.
Assess for disconnected tubing.
Decrease the ventilator flow rate.
Deliver breaths manually with a resuscitation bag.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason
Re-evaluate the client for an ET cuff leak is not appropriate. While an ET cuff leak could contribute to respiratory distress, the immediate concern is the high-pressure alarm, which indicates increased resistance to airflow. The nurse should address the alarm first and then assess for other potential causes, including an ET cuff leak.
Choice B reason:
Option B: Assess for disconnected tubing is not appropriate. A disconnected tubing is also a potential cause of the high-pressure alarm. However, before checking for disconnected tubing, the nurse should first deliver manual breaths with a resuscitation bag to provide the client with adequate ventilation.
Choice C reason:
Decrease the ventilator flow rate is not appropriate. Decreasing the ventilator flow rate might not be the appropriate action in this situation, as the high-pressure alarm indicates increased resistance, which might require increased flow to overcome. Additionally, the nurse should not delay taking immediate action by adjusting ventilator settings without knowing the specific cause of the high-pressure alarm.
Choice D reason:
When the high-pressure alarm is beeping, and the client is experiencing respiratory distress, it indicates that there is an increased resistance to airflow within the ventilator circuit or the client's airway. This can be a life-threatening situation, and immediate action is required.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason
Re-evaluate the client for an ET cuff leak is not appropriate. While an ET cuff leak could contribute to respiratory distress, the immediate concern is the high-pressure alarm, which indicates increased resistance to airflow. The nurse should address the alarm first and then assess for other potential causes, including an ET cuff leak.
Choice B reason:
Option B: Assess for disconnected tubing is not appropriate. A disconnected tubing is also a potential cause of the high-pressure alarm. However, before checking for disconnected tubing, the nurse should first deliver manual breaths with a resuscitation bag to provide the client with adequate ventilation.
Choice C reason:
Decrease the ventilator flow rate is not appropriate. Decreasing the ventilator flow rate might not be the appropriate action in this situation, as the high-pressure alarm indicates increased resistance, which might require increased flow to overcome. Additionally, the nurse should not delay taking immediate action by adjusting ventilator settings without knowing the specific cause of the high-pressure alarm.
Choice D reason:
When the high-pressure alarm is beeping, and the client is experiencing respiratory distress, it indicates that there is an increased resistance to airflow within the ventilator circuit or the client's airway. This can be a life-threatening situation, and immediate action is required.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Keep the client's television on with the volume low: This is incorrect because it does not address the client's safety or agitation. The television might also be a source of confusion or stimulation for the client.
B. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter to minimize interaction with the client: This is incorrect because it is an invasive and unnecessary procedure that increases the risk of infection and trauma. It also violates the client's dignity and autonomy.
C. Consult the provider regarding administering a mild sedative on a schedule: This is incorrect because it is not the first action to take. The nurse should first assess the client's condition and identify possible causes of disorientation and combativeness, such as pain, infection, medication side effects, or delirium. Sedatives should be used as a last resort and only with informed consent.
D. Move the client to a room near the nurses' station: This is correct because it allows for close observation and supervision of the client, which can prevent injury and promote safety. It also facilitates frequent interaction and reassurance from the staff, which can reduce anxiety and agitation.
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