The nurse is caring for a client after a thoracentesis that drained 50 mL of clear fluid from the left lung. Which assessment finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider immediately?
Dullness bilaterally on percussion.
Serosanguinous drainage from the chest tube.
Diminished breath sounds in the left lower lobe.
Mediastinal shift to the right.
The Correct Answer is D
A) Incorrect- Dullness bilaterally on percussion is not a normal finding, but it is not an immediate concern after thoracentesis. It may indicate fluid accumulation or consolidation in both lungs, which could be related to other conditions such as pneumonia or heart failure.
B) Incorrect- Serosanguinous drainage from the chest tube is expected after thoracentesis, as long as it is not excessive or continuous. The nurse should monitor the amount and color of the drainage and document it accordingly.
C) Incorrect- Diminished breath sounds in the left lower lobe are also expected after thoracentesis, as the procedure removes fluid and air from the pleural space and reduces lung expansion. The nurse should auscultate the lungs before and after the procedure and compare the findings. The breath sounds should improve gradually as the lung re-expands.
D) Correct- This is a sign of tension pneumothorax, which is a life-threatening complication of thoracentesis. Tension pneumothorax occurs when air accumulates in the pleural space and creates positive pressure that pushes the mediastinum (the heart, great vessels, and trachea) to the opposite side of the chest. This can impair venous return, cardiac output, and respiratory function. The nurse should report this finding to the healthcare provider immediately and prepare to assist with needle decompression or chest tube insertion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Incorrect- This is true; the diaphragm should be inserted before sexual activity. However, the main concern in this scenario is the need for refitting after childbirth.
B) Incorrect- This statement is not accurate. While the diaphragm is a form of contraception, it is not considered one of the most effective methods. Long-acting reversible contraceptives
(LARCs) like intrauterine devices (IUDs) and hormonal implants are among the most effective methods.
C) Incorrect- Vaseline lubricant can be used when inserting the diaphragm: Vaseline and other oil-based lubricants can weaken the latex or cause damage to the diaphragm. Water-based lubricants are recommended for use with diaphragms.
D) Correct- The diaphragm is a barrier contraceptive device that is inserted into the vagina before sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy. However, its effectiveness can be compromised by changes in the anatomy of the vaginal canal, cervix, and pelvic structures, such as those that occur after childbirth. After vaginal childbirth, the pelvic structures may undergo changes, including stretching and possible loss of tone. These changes can affect the fit and position of the diaphragm, leading to decreased contraceptive efficacy. Therefore, it's important for women who have given birth to have their diaphragm refitted by a healthcare provider before resuming its use.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer/s is Choice/s A, C, and E.
Choice A rationale: Obtaining the client’s tympanic temperature measurement is a crucial step. The client’s confusion and disorientation could be symptoms of an infection, such as a urinary tract infection or pneumonia. Infections in older adults can often present with atypical symptoms, including changes in mental status. Therefore, checking the client’s temperature can help identify if the client has a fever, which is a common sign of an infection.
Choice B rationale: While it’s always important to be aware of a client’s allergies, especially when administering medications, it doesn’t directly address the immediate concern of the client’s altered mental status. Therefore, it’s not the most appropriate action to take in response to the situation described.
Choice C rationale: Asking if the client is experiencing any pain with urination is relevant because urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in older adults and can cause confusion and other changes in mental status. Pain during urination is a common symptom of a UTI.
Choice D rationale: Encouraging the intake of high protein foods is generally a good recommendation for older adults to maintain their strength and energy levels. However, it’s not directly related to the client’s current symptoms of confusion and disorientation.
Choice E rationale: Determining if the client has recently experienced a fall is important. Falls in older adults can lead to injuries, such as a head injury, which can cause confusion and other changes in mental status. Additionally, some medications used to treat pain after a fall can also contribute to confusion.
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