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 A
Explanation
A. Atropine is commonly used in the treatment of symptomatic bradycardia. It works by blocking vagal stimulation, leading to increased heart rate. Atropine is typically administered in doses of 0.5 to 1 mg every 3 to 5 minutes, up to a total dose of 3 mg, in patients with symptomatic bradycardia.
B. Sodium bicarbonate is not indicated for symptomatic bradycardia. It is primarily used in the management of metabolic acidosis, hyperkalemia, and certain drug overdoses. While sodium bicarbonate may be administered in specific situations during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), it is not the first-line treatment for symptomatic bradycardia.
C. Magnesium sulfate is used in the treatment of certain arrhythmias, such as torsades de pointes and refractory ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia associated with hypomagnesemia. However, it is not the first-line treatment for symptomatic bradycardia. Magnesium sulfate may be considered if there are specific indications such as torsades de pointes or suspected hypomagnesemia.
D. Epinephrine is commonly used in advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols for cardiac arrest. It is not the first-line treatment for symptomatic bradycardia. Epinephrine is primarily used during CPR to improve coronary and cerebral perfusion by increasing systemic vascular resistance and heart rate.
However, in the case of symptomatic bradycardia, atropine is typically preferred as the initial medication.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. A client who is postoperative with shallow respirations at a rate of 9/min is likely not adequately eliminating carbon dioxide from their body due to hypoventilation. This retention of carbon dioxide can lead to an increase in the partial pressure of CO2 in the blood, causing an acidotic state.
A. Metabolic acidosis results from an accumulation of acids in the body or a loss of bicarbonate. Hypoventilation leading to respiratory acidosis does not directly cause metabolic acidosis.
C. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is excessive elimination of CO2 from the body, leading to decreased arterial carbon dioxide levels (hypocapnia) and an increase in pH. Shallow respirations and decreased respiratory rate are more consistent with hypoventilation and respiratory acidosis rather than hyperventilation and respiratory alkalosis.
D. Metabolic alkalosis results from excessive loss of acids or increased bicarbonate levels in the body. Hypoventilation leading to respiratory acidosis does not directly cause metabolic alkalosis.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.