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 D
Explanation
A. Metabolic alkalosis with full compensation:
This is not the correct interpretation. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated pH and elevated bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels. In this case, the pH is low (acidosis), and the bicarbonate level is within the normal range, suggesting a respiratory issue rather than a metabolic one.
B. Respiratory alkalosis with partial compensation:
This is not the correct interpretation. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by an elevated pH and decreased PaCO2. In this case, the pH is low (acidosis), and the PaCO2 is elevated, indicating respiratory acidosis rather than alkalosis.
C. Metabolic acidosis with partial compensation:
This is not the correct interpretation. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and decreased bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels. In this case, the bicarbonate level is within the normal range, and the elevated PaCO2 suggests a respiratory issue, not metabolic acidosis.
D. Respiratory acidosis with no compensation:
This is the correct interpretation. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH and an elevated PaCO2. The normal bicarbonate level indicates that compensatory mechanisms (such as the kidneys increasing bicarbonate reabsorption) have not fully corrected the pH imbalance, leading to respiratory acidosis with no compensation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Close the fire doors on the unit:
Closing fire doors is a safety measure to contain smoke and flames, but activating the fire alarm is the priority to ensure a swift and comprehensive response.
B. Use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire:
While using a fire extinguisher is an important action, it should come after activating the fire alarm. The fire alarm alerts everyone to the emergency, and then the appropriate personnel can use fire extinguishers as needed.
C. Move any clients in the immediate vicinity:
Priority action during a fire: The priority in any fire situation is to ensure the safety of individuals in the immediate area. The acronym RACE is commonly used in healthcare settings to outline the steps to take in the event of a fire:
- Rescue anyone in immediate danger.
- Alarm: Activate the fire alarm.
- Contain the fire by closing doors.
- Extinguish the fire if it is small and safe to do so, or Evacuate the area if necessary.
D. Activate the fire alarm
This is also important but comes after rescuing or moving clients in immediate danger.
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