A patient is being treated for bacterial pharyngitis.

Which of the following should a nurse recommend to promote the patient’s nutrition during treatment?

Choice A rationale
The initial assessment finding in a client diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism (PE) is typically dyspnea and anxiety. This is because a PE can block blood flow in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing (dyspnea). The sudden onset of this symptom can cause significant anxiety in the patient.
Choice B rationale
An altered level of consciousness is not typically an initial finding in PE. While severe cases can lead to decreased oxygen levels in the blood, causing confusion or loss of consciousness, these are not usually initial symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Wheezing in lung bases is not a typical initial finding in PE. Wheezing is more commonly associated with conditions that cause narrowing of the airways, such as asthma or COPD12.
Choice D rationale
While an increased pulse and respiratory rate can occur in PE due to the body’s attempt to compensate for decreased oxygen in the blood, they are not the most specific initial findings. Dyspnea and anxiety are more characteristic initial symptoms of PE12.

Choice A rationale
Following ventilator-weaning protocols is an important intervention to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. Weaning protocols help to reduce the duration of mechanical ventilation, which is a risk factor for developing ventilator-associated pneumonia.
Choice B rationale
Providing frequent mouth care is a key intervention in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia. Good oral hygiene can help to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth that can potentially be aspirated into the lungs.
Choice C rationale
Suctioning the patient every hour is not typically recommended as a method to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. Over-suctioning can potentially damage the lung tissue and mucous membranes, and it can also increase the risk of introducing bacteria into the lungs.
Choice D rationale
Placing the patient in a prone position can help to improve oxygenation and reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia. The prone position can help to drain secretions from the lungs, reducing the risk of bacteria growth and infection.
Choice E rationale
Refraining from suctioning the patient is not a recommended intervention to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. Suctioning is necessary to remove secretions from the airway, which can help to prevent infection.