A patient with respiratory failure has a respiratory rate of 26 breaths/min and an oxygen saturation (SpO2) of 80%. The patient is increasingly pale and restless but follows commands. Which intervention will the nurse anticipate?
Initiation of continuous positive pressure ventilation (CPAP)
Endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation
Insertion of a mini-tracheostomy with frequent suctioning
Administration of 100% O2 by non-rebreather mask
The Correct Answer is B
B. Endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are indicated in patients with respiratory failure who are unable to maintain adequate oxygenation or ventilation with non-invasive interventions. Intubation allows for the delivery of positive pressure ventilation, oxygenation, and airway protection. It also facilitates the clearance of secretions and administration of medications. Given the patient's severe hypoxemia, impending respiratory distress, and deteriorating condition, endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are the most appropriate interventions to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent further deterioration.
A. CPAP is a non-invasive ventilation modality that provides a continuous positive pressure to the airways throughout the respiratory cycle. While CPAP may be beneficial in certain cases of respiratory failure, it may not be sufficient for a patient with severe hypoxemia (SpO2 of 80%) and impending respiratory distress. CPAP is typically indicated for patients with conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea or mild to moderate respiratory failure.
C. Mini-tracheostomy may be considered in certain cases of upper airway obstruction or inadequate airway clearance. However, in this scenario, the patient's hypoxemia is likely due to severe respiratory failure rather than upper airway obstruction. While suctioning may be necessary to clear secretions, it does not address the underlying cause of hypoxemia or provide ventilatory support.
D. While administration of supplemental oxygen is important in the management of hypoxemia, a non- rebreather mask may not be sufficient for a patient with severe hypoxemia and impending respiratory distress. Non-rebreather masks can deliver high concentrations of oxygen but may not provide adequate positive pressure support or airway protection. In this case, endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are more appropriate to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C Atrial fibrillation (AF) is characterized by rapid, irregular electrical activity in the atria, leading to an irregularly irregular ventricular response. AF often results in palpitations, fatigue, and dizziness due to the irregular heart rhythm and inefficient cardiac output. A significant pulse deficit may also be present due to the irregularity of the ventricular response compared to the atrial activity. Given the sudden onset of irregular palpitations, fatigue, dizziness, and a significant pulse deficit, atrial fibrillation is a likely dysrhythmia in this scenario.

A First-degree AV block is characterized by a prolonged PR interval on the electrocardiogram (ECG), indicating delayed conduction between the atria and ventricles. While it can indicate conduction system abnormalities, it typically does not result in rapid or irregular palpitations, fatigue, or dizziness.
Therefore, it is less likely to be the cause of the client's symptoms.
B Sinus tachycardia is characterized by a rapid heart rate originating from the sinus node, typically with a regular rhythm. While sinus tachycardia can cause palpitations and fatigue, it is less likely to result in an irregular heart rate with a significant pulse deficit. Therefore, it is less likely to be the cause of the client's symptoms.
D Sinus bradycardia is characterized by a slow heart rate originating from the sinus node. While sinus bradycardia can cause fatigue and dizziness, it typically does not result in a rapid or irregular heart rate. Therefore, it is less likely to be the cause of the client's symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Dobutamine is a positive inotropic agent that increases myocardial contractility, leading to improved cardiac output. Enhanced cardiac output can result in improved renal perfusion and increased urine output, which is a positive indicator of improved cardiac function in clients with heart failure.
B. Decreased blood glucose level is not typically associated with the effectiveness of dobutamine. Dobutamine primarily affects cardiac contractility and does not directly influence blood glucose levels.
C. Decreased blood pressure would not typically indicate the effectiveness of dobutamine. While dobutamine can increase cardiac output, it does not necessarily lead to a decrease in blood pressure.
D. Increased heart rate may occur as a compensatory mechanism in response to increased cardiac output due to dobutamine administration. However, increased heart rate alone may not reliably indicate the effectiveness of dobutamine.
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