A student is caring for a patient with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) at 5 cm H20. The student asks “What is the purpose of PEEP?” which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?
PEEP deceases the peak respiratory pressures
“PEEP increases the number of breaths the patient takes on his own.”
“PEEP augments the patient’s overall tidal volumes.”
“PEEP improves oxygenation by keeping alveoli open after exhalation.”
The Correct Answer is D
A. PEEP decreases the peak respiratory pressures:
PEEP may increase peak respiratory pressures, especially during inspiration, but its primary purpose is to prevent alveolar collapse and improve oxygenation.
B. “PEEP increases the number of breaths the patient takes on his own.”:
PEEP does not increase the number of breaths the patient takes. It primarily affects the quality of ventilation by preventing alveolar collapse.
C. “PEEP augments the patient’s overall tidal volumes.”:
PEEP does not necessarily increase overall tidal volumes. It focuses on maintaining positive pressure at the end of expiration to prevent alveolar collapse.
D. “PEEP improves oxygenation by keeping alveoli open after exhalation.”
Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is used in mechanical ventilation to maintain positive pressure in the airways and alveoli at the end of the respiratory cycle (expiration). This helps prevent alveolar collapse and improves oxygenation by keeping the alveoli open, particularly in patients with conditions like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). PEEP is commonly used to increase functional residual capacity (FRC) and improve oxygenation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. “I have not received any of my medications today.”
The statement "I have not received any of my medications today" requires follow-up from the nurse because it indicates a potential issue with the client's medication administration. It's important to ensure that the client receives the prescribed medications in a timely manner.
B. “Do you know when I will be going home?”
This is a question about the discharge plan and does not indicate an immediate issue that requires follow-up.
C. “I do not know how to make the remote control work.”
While it's a statement about the client's understanding of the remote control, it is not an urgent matter that requires immediate attention.
D. “My dressing was changed earlier this morning.”
This statement indicates that a care task (dressing change) has been completed and does not suggest a problem that requires urgent follow-up.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Loop the tubing of the chest tube on the client’s bed:
Looping the tubing may create dependent loops that can trap drainage and prevent effective functioning of the chest tube. It can impede the drainage of air or fluid from the pleural space.
B. Strip the client’s chest tube every 2 hrs:
Stripping or milking the chest tube is an outdated practice. It can cause trauma to the tissue surrounding the chest tube and increase the risk of complications, including damage to the lung tissue or tubing.
C. Place the chest tube drainage system below the level of the client’s heart:
This is the correct action. Placing the chest tube drainage system below the level of the client's chest allows gravity to assist with drainage and prevents backflow or accumulation of fluids within the chest tube.
D. Tape the connections on the client’s chest tube:
Taping the connections on the chest tube is not recommended. It is important to keep connections secure, but taping can make it difficult to quickly identify and address any issues with the chest tube system during monitoring and assessment.
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.
