A nurse is caring for a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The nurse positions the client in the orthopneic position. What is the primary reason for the use of this position for this client?
Prevents pressure ulcers.
Supports hip extension.
Facilitates breathing.
Promotes urinary elimination.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
“Prevents pressure ulcers” is incorrect. While positioning can help prevent pressure ulcers, the orthopneic position is specifically used to aid in breathing rather than to prevent pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers are typically managed by regularly repositioning the client and using pressure-relieving devices.
Choice B Reason:
“Supports hip extension” is incorrect. The orthopneic position does not primarily support hip extension. This position involves sitting up and leaning forward, which does not significantly affect the hips.
Choice C Reason:
“Facilitates breathing” is correct. The orthopneic position, also known as the tripod position, helps to improve breathing in clients with COPD. By leaning forward and resting the arms on a table or knees, the diaphragm can move more freely, and accessory muscles of respiration are better utilized, reducing the work of breathing.
Choice D Reason:
“Promotes urinary elimination” is incorrect. The orthopneic position is not intended to promote urinary elimination. Urinary elimination is typically managed through other interventions such as ensuring adequate hydration and, if necessary, using a catheter.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Consulting the family priest may provide spiritual support and guidance to the family, but it is not the most appropriate action for resolving a medical and ethical dilemma. The family priest may not have the necessary medical or ethical expertise to address the complexities of the situation
Choice B reason: The ethics committee is the appropriate body to consult in this situation. Ethics committees are composed of healthcare professionals, ethicists, and legal advisors who can provide guidance on complex ethical issues. They can help navigate the conflict between the parents’ religious beliefs and the medical necessity of the blood transfusion for the newborn. The committee can also ensure that the hospital’s actions align with legal and ethical standards.
Choice C reason: The Joint Commission is an accrediting body for healthcare organizations and does not provide direct assistance in individual patient care situations. While the Joint Commission sets standards for ethical practices, it is not involved in resolving specific ethical dilemmas at the patient level.
Choice D reason: The blood bank is responsible for the collection, testing, and distribution of blood products. While they can provide information about blood transfusions, they are not equipped to handle ethical conflicts related to the refusal of blood transfusions on religious grounds. The ethics committee is better suited for this role.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Losing weight is one of the most effective ways to reduce the severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Excess weight, especially around the neck, can increase the risk of airway obstruction during sleep. Studies have shown that losing even 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve OSA symptoms. Therefore, the statement about losing 50 pounds indicates a good understanding of how weight loss can help manage sleep apnea.
Choice B Reason:
Taking a sleeping pill at night is not recommended for individuals with obstructive sleep apnea. Many sleeping pills, especially those that are sedatives or muscle relaxants, can worsen sleep apnea by relaxing the muscles of the throat, leading to increased airway obstruction. Therefore, this statement does not indicate an understanding of the appropriate management of sleep apnea.
Choice C Reason:
Using a humidifier can help alleviate some symptoms associated with sleep apnea, such as dry mouth and nasal congestion, but it does not directly reduce the number of apneic episodes. While a humidifier can improve comfort, it is not a primary treatment for reducing apneic episodes in OSA patients.
Choice D Reason:
Sleeping on the back is generally not recommended for individuals with obstructive sleep apnea. This position can cause the tongue and soft tissues to collapse to the back of the throat, worsening airway obstruction. Side sleeping is usually recommended to help keep the airway open. Therefore, this statement does not indicate an understanding of the best sleep practices for managing sleep apnea.
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