A nurse is caring for a client who has a tension pneumothorax. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?
Paradoxical chest movement
Bilateral crackles
Asymmetry of the chest
Blood-tinged sputum
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Paradoxical chest movement: Paradoxical chest movement is typically associated with flail chest, where multiple rib fractures cause a segment of the chest wall to move in the opposite direction during breathing. It is not a characteristic finding of tension pneumothorax, which involves intrathoracic pressure buildup rather than rib instability.
B. Bilateral crackles: Bilateral crackles are usually indicative of fluid in the alveoli, such as in pulmonary edema or pneumonia. Tension pneumothorax generally causes decreased or absent breath sounds on the affected side, not crackles, due to lung collapse.
C. Asymmetry of the chest: Tension pneumothorax often causes visible asymmetry of the chest because the affected side may appear distended while the other side may appear sunken. The increased intrathoracic pressure pushes mediastinal structures toward the unaffected side, making chest asymmetry a hallmark sign.
D. Blood-tinged sputum: Blood-tinged sputum is more commonly seen with pulmonary infections, trauma to the airway, or pulmonary embolism. It is not a primary manifestation of tension pneumothorax, which is primarily characterized by respiratory distress and unilateral findings.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Palpate the uterus for contractions: Assessing uterine activity is important after a seizure to monitor for labor or fetal compromise, but it does not address the immediate risk of maternal hypoxia following a seizure. This assessment can be performed after ensuring adequate oxygenation.
B. Administer oxygen 10 L/min via nonrebreather mask: After a seizure, the client is at risk for hypoxia due to apnea or increased oxygen demand. Administering high-flow oxygen is the priority action to restore oxygenation, support maternal and fetal perfusion, and prevent further complications.
C. Observe for post-convulsion incontinence: Monitoring for incontinence helps assess seizure severity and patient safety, but it does not immediately correct the critical issue of hypoxia. Observation is secondary to interventions that maintain airway and oxygenation.
D. Provide a quiet environment: Reducing stimuli can help prevent additional seizures or stress, but it is not the first priority after a seizure. Ensuring airway patency and oxygen delivery takes precedence over environmental modifications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Bradypnea: Respiratory depression is the most serious and potentially life-threatening adverse effect of morphine, especially after IV administration when onset is rapid. Bradypnea indicates a compromised airway and inadequate ventilation, making it the nurse’s priority for immediate assessment and intervention to prevent hypoxia and respiratory arrest.
B. Sedation: Sedation is a common effect of morphine and requires monitoring, but it is less immediately dangerous than respiratory depression. The nurse should assess the depth of sedation and level of consciousness while ensuring airway safety.
C. Constipation: Constipation is a common long-term side effect of opioids, but it is not an immediate threat to life. Preventive measures can be planned, but it does not take priority over acute respiratory compromise.
D. Euphoria: Euphoria may occur with opioid administration and is generally not harmful in the short term. While the nurse should monitor for behavioral changes or signs of misuse, it does not pose an immediate risk compared with respiratory depression.
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