A patient with respiratory failure has a respiratory rate of 6 breaths/min and an oxygen saturation (SpO2) of 78%. The patient is increasingly lethargic. 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% 02 by non-rebreather mask

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

B. Endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are indicated in patients with severe respiratory failure who are unable to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation on their own. This intervention provides mechanical support to the patient's breathing by delivering positive pressure to the lungs via an endotracheal tube. Given the patient's respiratory rate of 6 breaths/min, low oxygen saturation (SpO2 of 78%), and increasing lethargy, endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are the most appropriate interventions to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation.

A. CPAP is a form of non-invasive positive pressure ventilation that helps keep the airways open and improves oxygenation. However, in a patient with severe respiratory failure and impending respiratory arrest, CPAP alone may not be sufficient to adequately support ventilation and oxygenation. CPAP is typically used in patients with milder forms of respiratory failure or as a step-down therapy from invasive mechanical ventilation.

C. Insertion of a mini-tracheostomy is not typically indicated in a patient with severe respiratory failure and impending respiratory arrest. While tracheostomy may be considered in certain cases for long-term ventilation or airway management, it is not the first-line intervention in an acute situation like this.

Additionally, frequent suctioning may not address the underlying cause of respiratory failure or improve oxygenation.

D. Administering 100% oxygen via a non-rebreather mask can help improve oxygenation temporarily. However, in a patient with severe respiratory failure and impending respiratory arrest, non-invasive oxygen therapy alone may not be sufficient to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation.

Endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are more definitive interventions to ensure adequate support for the patient's breathing.

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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.

A. Prepare to insert a central line. B. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula. C. Raise the foot of the bed to a 90° angle. D. Remove the dressing to inspect the wound.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

B. This is a reasonable action given the client's respiratory rate and potential hypoxemia resulting from the sucking chest wound. Providing supplemental oxygen can help improve oxygenation and support the client's respiratory effort. However, it doesn't directly address the underlying cause of the shock.

A. In this scenario, the client's vital signs indicate signs of shock, which could be due to significant blood loss from the sucking chest wound. While inserting a central line may be necessary for administering fluids and medications rapidly, it's not the immediate priority in this situation. Stabilizing the client's condition takes precedence.

C. Elevating the foot of the bed to a 90° angle is not appropriate in this situation. This position can further decrease venous return to the heart, potentially exacerbating the client's hypotension and shock. It's crucial to maintain a neutral or slightly elevated position to optimize venous return.

D. While it's important to assess the wound and monitor for any changes, removing the dressing on a sucking chest wound without appropriate precautions can worsen the client's condition. The dressing helps to maintain a seal over the wound, preventing further air from entering the pleural space and worsening the tension pneumothorax. Removing the dressing should be done cautiously and preferably by a healthcare provider trained in managing chest trauma.

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A patient with respiratory failure has a respiratory rate of 6 breaths/min and an oxygen saturation (SpO2) of 78%. The patient is increasingly lethargic. Which intervention will the nurse anticipate?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse in the ICU is caring for a client who has heart failure and is receiving a dobutamine drip. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings indicates that the medication is effective?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who has a sucking chest wound resulting from a gunshot. The client has a blood pressure of 100/60 mm Hg, a weak pulse rate of 118/min, and a respiratory rate of 40/min. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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