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 A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
When calculating the fluid balance for a client undergoing continuous bladder irrigation (CBI), the irrigation solution must be deducted from the total urine output. This is because the irrigation fluid is not part of the client’s actual urine production but is an additional fluid introduced into the bladder to prevent or remove blood clots and ensure catheter patency. By deducting the irrigation solution from the total urine output, the nurse can accurately determine the client’s true urine output and fluid balance.
Choice B Reason:
Subtracting the irrigation solution from the intravenous flow sheet as output is incorrect. The intravenous flow sheet is used to document fluids administered intravenously, not those introduced into the bladder. Therefore, this choice does not apply to the management of continuous bladder irrigation.
Choice C Reason:
Documenting the intake hourly in the urine output column is also incorrect. The urine output column should reflect the actual urine produced by the client, not the irrigation solution. Including the irrigation solution in this column would lead to an inaccurate representation of the client’s urine output and fluid balance.
Choice D Reason:
Adding the irrigation solution to the oral intake column is incorrect as well. The oral intake column is designated for fluids consumed orally by the client. The irrigation solution is introduced directly into the bladder and should not be recorded as oral intake.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Apple juice is an appropriate choice for a full liquid diet. It is a clear liquid that provides hydration and some nutrients without putting strain on the digestive system. Apple juice is easily digestible and does not contain any solid particles that could be problematic for a client recovering from abdominal surgery.
Choice B reason: Smoothies can be included in a full liquid diet as long as they are well-blended and do not contain any solid chunks. Smoothies can provide essential nutrients and calories, which are important for recovery. They can be made with fruits, vegetables, and protein supplements to ensure a balanced intake.
Choice C reason: Mashed potatoes and gravy are not suitable for a full liquid diet. Although mashed potatoes are soft, they are not liquid and can be difficult to digest for someone on a full liquid diet. The gravy may also contain small particles or thickeners that are not appropriate for this diet. A full liquid diet is intended to include only foods that are completely liquid or will turn to liquid at room temperature.
Choice D reason: Chicken broth is an excellent choice for a full liquid diet. It is a clear liquid that provides hydration and some nutrients without adding any solid particles to the diet. Chicken broth is gentle on the digestive system and can help maintain electrolyte balance.
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