A patient has a diagnosis of Impaired Gas Exchange. Which assessment finding shows that the interventions have been effective?
The patient's Spo2 is 97% on 2L NC
The patient appears comfortable
The patient is coughing up copious white sputum
The patient is able to move out of bed without difficulty
The Correct Answer is A
A. The patient's Spo2 is 97% on 2L NC:
This assessment finding indicates that the patient's oxygen saturation level (SpO2) is 97% while receiving 2 liters per minute of oxygen via nasal cannula. Oxygen saturation is a measure of the percentage of hemoglobin saturated with oxygen in the blood. A SpO2 level of 97% suggests adequate oxygenation, which is essential for effective gas exchange. Therefore, if the patient's SpO2 is within the target range on the prescribed oxygen therapy, it indicates that the interventions aimed at improving gas exchange have been effective.
B. The patient appears comfortable:
While patient comfort is important, it is not a direct indicator of effective gas exchange. A patient may appear comfortable for various reasons, such as pain relief, proper positioning, or emotional support, but this does not necessarily reflect improved gas exchange. Therefore, while comfort is an important aspect of nursing care, it is not specifically indicative of the effectiveness of interventions for impaired gas exchange.
C. The patient is coughing up copious white sputum:
The presence of copious white sputum does not directly indicate improved gas exchange. White sputum may suggest various conditions, such as respiratory tract infections or inflammation, but it does not provide direct information about gas exchange efficiency. Effective gas exchange involves the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide at the alveolar-capillary membrane, which cannot be assessed solely based on sputum production.
D. The patient is able to move out of bed without difficulty:
The ability to move out of bed without difficulty may indicate improved overall physical function or mobility, but it does not specifically reflect improved gas exchange. Gas exchange primarily involves the transfer of oxygen from the alveoli into the bloodstream and the removal of carbon dioxide from the bloodstream into the alveoli for exhalation. While improved gas exchange may lead to enhanced physical endurance and reduced dyspnea, the ability to move out of bed without difficulty is not a direct measure of gas exchange efficiency.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Inspiratory stridor
Inspiratory stridor is a high-pitched, musical sound heard during inspiration that indicates partial obstruction of the upper airway. It is a characteristic sign of airway obstruction and requires immediate attention.
B. Nausea
Nausea is not a common manifestation of airway obstruction. It may be associated with other conditions such as gastrointestinal issues or medication side effects but is not directly related to airway obstruction.
C. Retractions
Retractions refer to visible sinking of the skin between the ribs and above the clavicles during inspiration, which indicates increased effort to breathe. Retractions can occur in response to airway obstruction, as the body attempts to overcome the resistance to breathing.
D. Muscle tremors
Muscle tremors are not specific manifestations of airway obstruction. Tremors may occur due to various reasons such as anxiety, electrolyte imbalances, or neurological conditions but are not typically associated with airway obstruction.
E. Cyanosis
Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes resulting from inadequate oxygenation of the blood. It can occur with airway obstruction as oxygen exchange is compromised. Cyanosis is a late sign of respiratory distress and requires immediate intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Auscultate breath sounds at least every 2 hours.
Regularly auscultating breath sounds is important for assessing respiratory status and detecting any signs of respiratory complications such as pneumonia or atelectasis. However, it is not the priority action in this scenario compared to applying antiembolic stockings, which directly addresses the increased risk of DVT and PE associated with immobility.
B. Perform range-of-motion exercises at least two to three times daily.
Range-of-motion exercises help prevent contractures and maintain joint mobility in immobile clients. While they are important for preventing musculoskeletal complications, they are not the priority action compared to applying antiembolic stockings, which directly addresses the increased risk of DVT and PE associated with immobility.
C. Make sure the client has an intake of 2,000 to 3,000 mL of fluid per day.
Maintaining adequate hydration is important for overall health and prevention of complications such as urinary tract infections and constipation. However, it is not the priority action in this scenario compared to applying antiembolic stockings, which directly addresses the increased risk of DVT and PE associated with immobility.
D. Apply antiembolic stockings.
The priority action for the nurse to contribute to the plan of care for an immobile client is to apply antiembolic stockings. Immobility increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and subsequent pulmonary embolism (PE). Antiembolic stockings (also known as compression stockings or TED stockings) help prevent venous stasis and decrease the risk of blood clots forming in the lower extremities. Therefore, applying antiembolic stockings is essential in mitigating the risk of potentially life-threatening complications associated with immobility.
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