The nurse is caring for a patient with COPD. Which intervention could be delegated to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?
Teach the patient to pursed lip breath.
Auscultate breath sounds every 4 hours.
Assist the patient to get out of bed.
Plan patient activities to minimize exertion.
The Correct Answer is C
Assisting the patient to get out of bed is a task that can be safely delegated to UAP, as long as the patient's mobility and transfer status allow for assistance without the need for specialized nursing skills. UAPs are trained to provide basic patient care, including assisting with activities of daily living, under the supervision and direction of licensed healthcare professionals.
Teaching the patient to purse lip breath requires knowledge and understanding of the technique, as well as the ability to assess the patient's response and provide feedback. This is best done by a licensed healthcare professional, such as a nurse or respiratory therapist. Auscultating breath sounds every 4 hours requires the ability to correctly use a stethoscope and interpret the findings. This task falls within the scope of practice of a nurse or respiratory therapist who has received appropriate training.
Planning patient activities to minimize exertion requires knowledge of the patient's condition, limitations, and goals. It involves assessment, evaluation, and coordination of care, which are typically performed by licensed healthcare professionals.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E","F"]
Explanation
Ensure the client receives adequate amounts of fluids: This is important to maintain hydration and thin respiratory secretions, making it easier for the client to cough and clear the airways. Check the client's mouth for stomatitis: Methylprednisolone can increase the risk of developing oral candidiasis (thrush) or stomatitis, which can cause discomfort and interfere with oral intake. Regular mouth checks can help identify these conditions early for appropriate management. Assess the client's mental status: Pneumonia, particularly in individuals with pre-existing lung disease like COPD, can lead to hypoxemia, which may affect mental status. It is important to monitor the client's mental status, as changes in cognition or confusion can be indicators of hypoxia and require prompt intervention.
Monitor for signs of hypokalemia: Methylprednisolone, like other corticosteroids, can cause electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Hypokalemia can have various effects on the body, including muscle weakness and cardiac dysrhythmias. Regular monitoring of potassium levels and signs of hypokalemia is important for timely management. Monitor the client's blood glucose levels: Methylprednisolone can increase blood glucose levels, particularly in individuals with pre-existing diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary to ensure proper glycemic control and prevent hyperglycemia-related complications.
Monitor the client's blood pressure for hypotension: Corticosteroids like methylprednisolone can cause fluid retention, leading to an increase in blood pressure. However, sudden withdrawal of corticosteroids can result in adrenal insufficiency and hypotension. Close monitoring of blood pressure is necessary to identify any significant changes and adjust the medication regimen accordingly.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Albuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist bronchodilator that provides rapid relief of bronchospasm and helps to alleviate the symptoms of respiratory distress in asthma. It acts quickly to relax the smooth muscles in the airways, improving airflow and relieving wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. In an acute asthma exacerbation, albuterol is often the first-line medication used to provide immediate relief and improve respiratory function. Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid that has anti-inflammatory effects and is commonly used in the treatment of asthma. However, it is typically administered orally and takes time to exert its effects. In the emergency department setting, the focus is on providing immediate relief of symptoms, and oral medications like prednisone may not have an immediate effect. Ipratropium is an anticholinergic bronchodilator that can be administered via inhalation. While it is effective in relieving bronchospasm, it is generally used as an adjunct to albuterol and not typically the first-line medication for severe respiratory distress in asthma. Fluticasone is an inhaled corticosteroid that has anti-inflammatory effects and is used for long-term management and control of asthma. It is not appropriate for immediate relief of severe respiratory distress and is not typically used as a first-line medication in the emergency department.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today