Exhibits

Choose the most likely options for the information missing from the statement by selecting from the lists of options provided. When the laboratory results are available, the practical nurse (PN) would expect the child to have

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during the submersion.

A. Maintaining low intermittent suction requires assessing the appropriate suction settings and monitoring for complications, which are responsibilities beyond the UAP’s scope of practice. This task involves clinical judgment and knowledge of suction settings.
B. Securing the tube to the client’s nose is a task that UAPs can perform. It is a straightforward task that helps ensure the tube stays in place, which is a supportive care measure within the UAP's scope of practice.
C. Ensuring correct placement of the tube involves assessing for proper tube position through methods such as aspirating gastric contents or using imaging, which are tasks that require clinical judgment and are outside the UAP's scope of practice.
D. Replacing the canister when full involves handling medical equipment and requires understanding of suction mechanics and infection control practices, which are tasks that the PN or RN should perform.

The child’s symptoms—drowsiness, thick yellow secretions, low respiratory rate, and fever—along with the chest x-ray showing consolidation consistent with pneumonia, indicate that he is experiencing respiratory insufficiency. Respiratory insufficiency occurs when the respiratory system fails to meet the body's oxygen needs or remove carbon dioxide effectively.

Actions to Take:

1. Perform oropharyngeal suctioning
Suctioning is necessary to clear the thick yellow secretions that can obstruct the airway and contribute to respiratory insufficiency. It helps maintain a patent airway and improves the child's ability to breathe.

2. Provide humidified supplemental oxygen
Humidified oxygen helps to maintain airway moisture and improve oxygenation, which is critical for managing respiratory insufficiency. It can also help loosen secretions and alleviate symptoms related to pneumonia.

Parameters to Monitor:

1. Oxygen Saturation
Monitoring oxygen saturation is essential to assess the effectiveness of supplemental oxygen and interventions for respiratory insufficiency. Low oxygen saturation indicates that the respiratory system is not meeting the oxygen demands of the body.

2. Temperature
Temperature monitoring is important to assess the effectiveness of fever management and to monitor for potential worsening of the infection. Elevated temperature can exacerbate respiratory insufficiency and indicate ongoing infection.