A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client who has a new implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Which of the following client statements demonstrates understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason

Re-evaluate the client for an ET cuff leak is not appropriate. While an ET cuff leak could contribute to respiratory distress, the immediate concern is the high-pressure alarm, which indicates increased resistance to airflow. The nurse should address the alarm first and then assess for other potential causes, including an ET cuff leak.

Choice B reason:

Option B: Assess for disconnected tubing is not appropriate. A disconnected tubing is also a potential cause of the high-pressure alarm. However, before checking for disconnected tubing, the nurse should first deliver manual breaths with a resuscitation bag to provide the client with adequate ventilation.

Choice C reason:

Decrease the ventilator flow rate is not appropriate. Decreasing the ventilator flow rate might not be the appropriate action in this situation, as the high-pressure alarm indicates increased resistance, which might require increased flow to overcome. Additionally, the nurse should not delay taking immediate action by adjusting ventilator settings without knowing the specific cause of the high-pressure alarm.

Choice D reason:

When the high-pressure alarm is beeping, and the client is experiencing respiratory distress, it indicates that there is an increased resistance to airflow within the ventilator circuit or the client's airway. This can be a life-threatening situation, and immediate action is required.

A.PRN (as needed) restraint prescriptions are not appropriate because restraints should only be used in situations where there is an immediate need for safety and all other methods of de-escalation have failed. Restraint use must be based on a current assessment of the client's behavior, and a specific prescription should be obtained each time restraints are applied.

B.Restraints should be removed every 2 hours to assess the client's skin, circulation, and range of motion, and to provide an opportunity for toileting, hydration, and movement. Prolonged use without breaks increases the risk of complications such as skin breakdown or impaired circulation.

C.Attach the restraint to the bed's side rails. Restraints should not be attached to the bed's side rails because it can lead to serious injuries if the client attempts to climb over the side rails while restrained. Instead, restraints should be attached to specific restraint ties or straps that are part of the bed frame.

D.The client's condition, including circulation, skin integrity, and behavior, should be monitored and documented every 15 minutes while restraints are in use. This frequent assessment helps ensure the client’s safety and comfort, and allows for early identification of potential complications.