A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for diagnostic thoracentesis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when assisting with this test?
Instruct the client to take deep breaths during the test.
Assist the client to a prone position prior to the test.
Inform the client that the new onset of a cough is expected following the test.
Apply pressure to the client's puncture site after the test is complete.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Instructing the client to take deep breaths during the test is not appropriate for a thoracentesis. This procedure involves the insertion of a needle into the pleural space to drain fluid or air, and taking deep breaths could interfere with the accuracy and safety of the procedure.
Choice B rationale:
Assisting the client to a prone position prior to the test is also incorrect. During a thoracentesis, the client is usually seated upright or in a slightly forward-leaning position to allow better access to the pleural space and improve breathing.
Choice C rationale:
Informing the client that the new onset of a cough is expected following the test is not accurate. While a cough can be a possible side effect, it is not a common or expected outcome of a thoracentesis.
Choice D rationale:
Applying pressure to the client's puncture site after the test is complete is the correct action. This helps to prevent bleeding and reduce the risk of pneumothorax (collapsed lung) by promoting clot formation at the site of the needle insertion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Is not a safe fall prevention strategy. Securing cords under carpeting can create tripping hazards. It is better to keep cords away from commonly used walking paths or use cord covers to prevent falls.
Choice B rationale:
Purchasing a skid-proof bathtub mat is a good fall-prevention strategy for an older adult client. It helps prevent slipping and falling in the bathroom, which is a common area for accidents in older adults.
Choice C rationale:
Is not a recommended fall prevention strategy. Leather soles can be slippery on smooth surfaces, increasing the risk of falls. Instead, the client should wear shoes with rubber soles that provide better traction.
Choice D rationale:
Is not the best option. Throw rugs, even with rubber backing, can still shift or bunch up, posing a tripping hazard. It's safer to avoid using throw rugs altogether or ensure they are firmly secured to the floor.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
An INR (International Normalized Ratio) of 0.8 is within the normal range for someone not on anticoagulation therapy. The aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time) of 85 seconds is prolonged, but it is not a reason to withhold heparin in itself. Therefore, the nurse should not withhold the medication for these values.
Choice B rationale:
An INR of 2 indicates the client's blood is taking twice as long to clot compared to the average, which can increase the risk of bleeding. The aPTT of 60 seconds is within the normal range. However, the elevated INR suggests the client might be overly anticoagulated, so the nurse should withhold the medication and notify the provider.
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