A nurse is assessing a client who is 2 days postoperative and is auscultating their bilateral breath sounds. The nurse notes absent breath sounds in the bases. The nurse should suspect which postoperative complication is occurring in this client?
Atelectasis
Pulmonary embolism
Arterial thrombus
Pneumonia
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Atelectasis is a common postoperative complication, especially in patients who have undergone abdominal or thoracic surgery. It occurs when the alveoli in the lungs collapse, leading to reduced or absent breath sounds in the affected areas. This condition can result from shallow breathing, pain, or immobility after surgery. The absence of breath sounds in the bases of the lungs is a key indicator of atelectasis. Preventive measures include encouraging deep breathing exercises, using incentive spirometry, and early mobilization of the patient.
Choice B Reason:
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs, causing a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries. While PE can present with symptoms such as sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heart rate, it is less likely to cause absent breath sounds in the lung bases. Instead, PE may lead to decreased oxygen levels and respiratory distress. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as a CT pulmonary angiography.
Choice C Reason:
Arterial thrombus refers to a blood clot that forms in an artery, which can lead to tissue ischemia and infarction. This condition is more commonly associated with cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke. It does not typically present with absent breath sounds in the lungs. Instead, symptoms may include pain, pallor, and loss of function in the affected area. Diagnosis and treatment focus on restoring blood flow to the affected tissues.
Choice D Reason:
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can cause symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. While pneumonia can lead to abnormal breath sounds, such as crackles or wheezes, it is less likely to cause completely absent breath sounds in the lung bases. Pneumonia is usually diagnosed through clinical examination, chest X-rays, and sputum cultures. Treatment involves antibiotics and supportive care to manage symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
“Call the provider” is important but not the first priority. The immediate concern is to maintain the client’s intravenous access to ensure they can receive any necessary medications or fluids promptly. Once the line is secured, the provider should be notified to receive further instructions and manage the client’s condition.
Choice B Reason:
“Notify the blood bank” is also crucial but comes after ensuring the client’s immediate safety. The blood bank needs to be informed to investigate the cause of the reaction and prevent further issues, but this step follows the initial emergency interventions.
Choice C Reason:
“Collect a urine specimen” is necessary to check for hemolysis, which can occur during a transfusion reaction. However, this is not the first step. The priority is to stabilize the client by maintaining IV access with normal saline.
Choice D Reason:
“Keep the line open with 0.9% NS through new tubing” is the correct first intervention. This action ensures that the client remains hydrated and that the IV line is available for any emergency medications or treatments. Using new tubing prevents any contamination from the transfusion set.
Correct Answer is ["3"]
Explanation
Step-by-Step Calculation:
Step 1: Determine the dose required.
- Dose required = 1.5 mg
Step 2: Determine the dose available per tablet.
- Dose available per tablet = 0.5 mg
Step 3: Calculate the number of tablets needed.
- Number of tablets = Dose required ÷ Dose available per tablet
- Number of tablets = 1.5 mg ÷ 0.5 mg/tablet
Step 4: Perform the division.
- 1.5 ÷ 0.5 = 3
Result: The nurse should administer 3 tablets.
Therefore, the nurse should administer 3 tablets.
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