A nurse is caring for a client who is 24 hr postoperative. Which of the following interventions should the nurse take to reduce the risk of atelectasis?
Administer morphine intermittent IV bolus every 2 hr to the client.
Turn the client from side to side every 4 hr.
Provide the client with nasotracheal suctioning for 15 to 20 seconds at a time.
Instruct the client to hold the inhaled breath for 2 to 5 seconds with incentive spirometer use.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Administering morphine intermittent IV bolus every 2 hours is not a suitable intervention for reducing the risk of atelectasis. While pain management is important postoperatively, morphine can depress respiratory function and increase the risk of atelectasis.
Choice B rationale:
Turning the client from side to side every 4 hours is important for preventing pressure ulcers and promoting comfort, but it is not a specific intervention for reducing the risk of atelectasis.
Choice C rationale:
Providing nasotracheal suctioning for 15 to 20 seconds at a time is not a preventive measure for atelectasis. Suctioning may be necessary for airway clearance in certain situations, but it does not address the root cause of atelectasis.
Choice D rationale:
This is the correct choice. Instructing the client to hold the inhaled breath for 2 to 5 seconds with incentive spirometer use is an effective intervention to reduce the risk of atelectasis. Incentive spirometry helps to expand the lungs and improve ventilation, preventing atelectasis after surgery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The client's ABG values show a pH of 7.48, PCO2 of 30 mm Hg, HCO3 of 24 mEq/L, and PaO2 of 85 mm Hg. The elevated pH and decreased PCO2 (respiratory component) suggest respiratory alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is excessive ventilation, leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels (hypocapnia) and subsequent alkalosis.
Choice B rationale:
Respiratory acidosis is characterized by an elevated PCO2 and decreased pH. In this case, the client's PCO2 is decreased, indicating respiratory alkalosis rather than respiratory acidosis.
Choice C rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated HCO3 (bicarbonate) level and an increased pH. The client's HCO3 level is within the normal range, making metabolic alkalosis an incorrect identification.
Choice D rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decreased HCO3 level and a decreased pH. The client's HCO3 level is within the normal range, ruling out metabolic acidosis as the acid-base imbalance in this case.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:

Tender, bleeding gums could be a sign of phenytoin-induced gingival hyperplasia, a serious adverse effect of phenytoin. This condition requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.
Choice B rationale:
Increased facial hair is not a common adverse effect of phenytoin and may not require immediate medical attention. It could be due to other factors or conditions.
Choice C rationale:
Constipation is a common side effect of many medications, including phenytoin. While it should be monitored, it does not require immediate reporting to the provider unless severe or persistent.
Choice D rationale:
A skin rash can be an adverse effect of phenytoin, but it does not necessarily require immediate reporting unless it is severe, accompanied by other symptoms, or indicative of a serious allergic reaction.
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