A nurse is caring for a client who has acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and requires mechanical ventilation. The client receives a prescription for pancuronium. The nurse recognizes that this medication is for which of the following purposes?

The correct answer is: a. Development of subcutaneous emphysema

Choice A: Development of subcutaneous emphysema

Reason: Subcutaneous emphysema occurs when air gets trapped under the skin, often due to a leak from the lung or chest tube. This can indicate a serious complication such as a pneumothorax or a malfunctioning chest tube, requiring immediate medical intervention. The presence of subcutaneous emphysema can lead to discomfort, respiratory distress, and further complications if not addressed promptly.

Choice B: Chest tube eyelets not visible

Reason: The eyelets of a chest tube are small holes at the end of the tube that allow air and fluid to drain from the pleural space. These eyelets are typically covered by a dressing and may not be visible. This is not necessarily a cause for concern unless there are other signs of malfunction or complications.

Choice C: Continuous bubbling in the suction control chamber

Reason: Continuous bubbling in the suction control chamber is expected and indicates that the suction is functioning properly. It does not indicate a problem unless the bubbling is in the water seal chamber, which would suggest an air leak.

Choice D: Presence of tidal fluctuation in the water seal chamber

Reason: Tidal fluctuation, or tidaling, in the water seal chamber is a normal finding. It indicates that the chest tube is patent and functioning correctly, as the water level rises with inhalation and falls with exhalation. The absence of tidaling could indicate a blockage or that the lung has fully re-expanded.

Choice A reason: "I will be able to tell how much oxygen I'm getting by looking at the flowmeter." This statement is correct because the flowmeter shows the amount of oxygen delivered in liters per minute. The client should check the flowmeter regularly and adjust it according to the prescription.

Choice B reason: "I should call my doctor if I find it harder to concentrate." This statement is correct because difficulty concentrating can be a sign of low oxygen levels or carbon dioxide retention. The client should monitor their symptoms and report any changes to their doctor.

Choice C reason: "I will wear synthetic clothing and woolen socks when using my oxygen." This statement is incorrect because synthetic clothing and woolen socks can create static electricity and increase the risk of fire when using oxygen. The client should wear cotton clothing and avoid materials that can cause sparks.

Choice D reason: "I will make sure my visitors smoke outside." This statement is correct because smoking near oxygen can cause a fire or explosion. The client should keep oxygen away from open flames, smoking materials, and heat sources.