A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has cystic fibrosis.
Which of the following actions should the nurse instruct the client to take prior to initiating postural drainage?

Choice A rationale:

Paradoxical chest movement refers to the abnormal inward movement of the chest during inhalation and outward movement during exhalation. It is not a typical finding in pneumothorax. Instead, paradoxical chest movement is often observed in conditions such as flail chest.

Choice B rationale:

Reduced right-sided breath sounds are a common finding in right pneumothorax. Air in the pleural space can cause lung collapse, leading to decreased or absent breath sounds on the affected side.

Choice C rationale:

High-pitched stridor is a sound heard during inspiration and indicates upper airway obstruction, often due to conditions like croup or epiglottitis. It is not a characteristic finding in pneumothorax.

Choice D rationale:

Intercostal retractions occur when the tissues between the ribs are pulled inward during inspiration. While retractions can be seen in various respiratory distress conditions, they are not specific to pneumothorax.

Choice A rationale:

Using a 12-point font when printing written materials is helpful for readability, especially for individuals with visual impairments. However, this action alone does not necessarily promote meaningful learning. The content and presentation style are equally important.

Choice B rationale:

Presenting information using abstract concepts can be confusing, especially for older adults. Using concrete examples and simple language facilitates better understanding. Abstract concepts are more challenging to grasp, especially for individuals who might be experiencing cognitive decline.

Choice C rationale:

Connecting new information with the client's past experiences enhances learning and retention. Relating new knowledge to familiar situations or memories helps create cognitive associations, making it easier for the client to understand and remember the information. This technique is particularly effective in promoting learning among older adults.

Choice D rationale:

Speaking loudly when addressing the client is unnecessary and can be perceived as rude or patronizing. Clear and audible speech is essential, but shouting or raising the volume excessively is not respectful and does not enhance the learning experience.