A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving mechanical ventilation when the low-pressure alarm sounds on the ventilator. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Suction the client's airway.
Empty water from the client's ventilator tubing.
Increase the client's ventilator flow rate.
Evaluate the client for a cuff leak.
The Correct Answer is D
D. Evaluate the client for a cuff leak is the most appropriate action in response to a low-pressure alarm on the ventilator. A cuff leak can cause a drop in ventilator pressure, triggering the alarm. Assessing the client's cuff for leaks and addressing any identified issues can help resolve the alarm and ensure adequate ventilation.
A. Suctioning the client's airway is not the appropriate action in response to a low-pressure alarm on the ventilator.
B. Emptying water from the client's ventilator tubing could be a valid action to take if there is excess condensation or water buildup in the ventilator tubing causing the low-pressure alarm. However, it's not the first action to consider, as other causes should be ruled out first.
C. Increasing the ventilator flow rate may help maintain adequate pressure in the ventilator circuit and address the low-pressure alarm if the cause is related to insufficient airflow. However, adjusting the flow rate should be done cautiously and based on the client's respiratory status and ventilator settings.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Suspending the infusion of packed RBCs is essential to prevent further administration of the blood product that may be causing the adverse reaction. Stopping the infusion allows for further assessment and appropriate management of the client's symptoms.
A. The client's symptoms of chills, lower back pain, and nausea suggest a potential transfusion reaction rather than respiratory compromise.
B. Collecting a urine sample may be indicated to assess for hemolysis or kidney injury, which can occur as a result of a transfusion reaction. However, this action can be deferred until after immediate interventions to manage the suspected reaction.
D. While checking the client's vital signs is important in assessing the severity of the reaction and the client's overall condition, it is not the first action to take when a transfusion reaction is suspected.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Stridor is a high-pitched, crowing sound that occurs during inspiration and indicates upper airway obstruction. Stridor following extubation is a concerning finding and requires immediate intervention to ensure adequate airway patency and prevent respiratory compromise. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider immediately and be prepared to provide interventions such as airway suctioning, supplemental oxygen, or reintubation if necessary.
A. While a sore throat is a common complaint after extubation due to irritation from the endotracheal tube, it does not typically require immediate intervention unless it is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. The nurse should provide comfort measures and monitor for worsening symptoms.
B. An SPO2 of 92% is within normal rage and requires no immediate intervention.
D. While rhonchi may require intervention, they are not typically as immediately concerning as stridor, which indicates upper airway obstruction.
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