A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled to undergo thoracentesis. In which of the following positions should the nurse place the client for the procedure?
Prone with arms raised over the head.
Sitting, leaning forward over the bedside table.
High Fowler's position
Side-lying with knees drawn up to the chest.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Prone with arms raised over the head.
This position involves lying face down with the arms raised over the head. It is not appropriate for thoracentesis because it does not provide easy access to the thoracic cavity, and it may compress the chest, making it difficult for the client to breathe comfortably during the procedure.
B. Sitting, leaning forward over the bedside table.
This is the correct choice. For thoracentesis, the client should be positioned sitting upright and leaning forward over the bedside table or supported by pillows. This position allows better access to the thoracic cavity and facilitates the removal of pleural fluid. Leaning forward also helps to open up the intercostal spaces, making it easier for the healthcare provider to insert the needle into the appropriate space between the ribs.
C. High Fowler's position.
The High Fowler's position involves the client sitting upright with the head of the bed elevated at a 90-degree angle. While this position may be used for other respiratory procedures or for comfort, it is not the optimal position for thoracentesis. It does not provide the same degree of access to the thoracic cavity as the sitting position with forward leaning.
D. Side-lying with knees drawn up to the chest.
This position involves lying on one side with the knees drawn up to the chest. It is not appropriate for thoracentesis because it does not provide access to the thoracic cavity, and it may obstruct the procedure. Additionally, this position may not be comfortable for the client during the procedure.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Air moves in and out of a wound in the chest wall.
In an open pneumothorax, also known as a sucking chest wound, there is a communication between the pleural space and the external environment through a wound in the chest wall. This allows air to move freely in and out of the pleural cavity during respiration. As a result, there is a loss of negative pressure within the pleural space, impairing lung expansion and leading to respiratory compromise. This condition is considered a medical emergency and requires prompt intervention to prevent tension pneumothorax and respiratory failure.
B. Air cannot pass freely into the thoracic cavity through a chest wound.
In an open pneumothorax, air can pass freely into the thoracic cavity through the chest wound. This communication between the external environment and the pleural space results in air movement in and out of the wound during respiration.
C. There are no audible sounds in an open pneumothorax.
In an open pneumothorax, there may be audible sounds, such as sucking or hissing sounds, particularly during inspiration. These sounds occur due to the movement of air in and out of the chest wound and can be indicative of the condition.
D. The air is trapped when it enters the cavity.
In an open pneumothorax, the air is not trapped when it enters the pleural cavity. Instead, air moves freely in and out of the wound in the chest wall, leading to respiratory compromise and potential progression to tension pneumothorax if left untreated.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Position the client on the nonoperative side.
Positioning the client on the nonoperative side after a pneumonectomy may not be the best choice. The positioning of the client post-pneumonectomy should be based on factors such as the individual's comfort, respiratory status, and any specific instructions from the healthcare provider. Placing the client on the nonoperative side may inadvertently put pressure on the surgical site, leading to discomfort or potential complications.
B. Monitor respiratory status every 8 hr.
Monitoring respiratory status every 8 hours is not sufficient for a client post-pneumonectomy. After such a major surgical procedure, respiratory status should be closely monitored and assessed more frequently, especially in the immediate postoperative period. This frequency allows for the early detection of any signs of respiratory distress, such as decreased oxygen saturation, dyspnea, or abnormal breath sounds, as well as complications like pneumothorax or atelectasis.
C. Elevate the head of the bed to a 15° angle.
Elevating the head of the bed to a 15° angle is a general recommendation for clients postoperative to promote respiratory function and reduce the risk of aspiration. However, after a pneumonectomy, the positioning of the client may vary based on their individual condition and surgical approach. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's specific instructions regarding positioning for optimal recovery. The angle of elevation may need to be adjusted based on the client's comfort and respiratory status.
D. Encourage the client to splint the incision when coughing.
After a pneumonectomy, it's crucial to encourage the client to splint the incision when coughing. Splinting the incision with a pillow or hands helps to reduce pain and prevent strain on the surgical site, promoting healing and minimizing the risk of complications such as wound dehiscence (opening of the surgical incision).
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