The nurse notes documentation that a client is exhibiting Cheyne-Stokes respirations. On assessment, what finding would the nurse expect?
Regular deep respirations interspersed with periods of apnea
A pattern of crescendo-decrescendo respirations followed by a period of apnea
Patient breathing less than 10 breaths per minute
Patient breathing shallow and more than 24 breaths per minute
The Correct Answer is B
A. Regular deep respirations interspersed with periods of apnea:
This describes periodic breathing, which is different from Cheyne-Stokes respirations. Periodic breathing consists of regular cycles of deep respirations followed by periods of apnea.
B. A pattern of crescendo-decrescendo respirations followed by a period of apnea
Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a pattern of crescendo-decrescendo respirations, meaning that the depth and rate of breathing gradually increase and then decrease. This is followed by a period of apnea, during which there is a temporary cessation of breathing. The cycle then repeats.
C. Patient breathing less than 10 breaths per minute:
This describes bradypnea, which is an abnormally slow respiratory rate. Cheyne-Stokes respirations involve rhythmic, cyclical changes in respiratory rate and depth.
D. Patient breathing shallow and more than 24 breaths per minute:
This describes tachypnea, which is an abnormally fast respiratory rate. Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a distinct pattern of alternating crescendo-decrescendo respirations followed by apnea.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Check temperature and SPO2
When the nurse finds an adult patient's pulse rate to be 140 beats per minute, it is important to assess other vital signs, particularly temperature and oxygen saturation (SPO2). This helps gather additional information to understand the overall clinical picture and assess for potential underlying causes of the elevated heart rate.
B. Report the rate to the primary care provider:
Reporting the heart rate to the primary care provider may be necessary, but it should not be the immediate action. Assessing other vital signs first provides a more comprehensive understanding.
C. Check the pulse again in 2 hours:
Waiting for 2 hours to recheck the pulse is not appropriate when the heart rate is significantly elevated. Immediate action and further assessment are needed.
D. Record the information:
Recording the elevated heart rate is part of documentation, but it should be accompanied by a more comprehensive assessment of vital signs and potential contributing factors.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Place the client on bed rest in supine position:
While bed rest might be appropriate for certain respiratory conditions, it is not a specific intervention for crackles. In fact, changing the client's position, such as having them sit up, may enhance lung function and help with breathing.
B. Repeat auscultation after asking the client to breathe deeply and cough:
This is the correct action. Repeating auscultation after having the client take deep breaths and cough can provide additional information about the nature of the crackles and may help clear the airways temporarily.
C. Prepare to administer antibiotics:
Administering antibiotics would be considered if the crackles are indicative of a respiratory infection. However, determining the need for antibiotics would require a more comprehensive assessment, including diagnostic tests.
D. Instruct the client to limit fluid intake to less than 2,000 mL/day:
Limiting fluid intake is not a direct intervention for crackles. This action is typically considered in conditions like heart failure where there is a risk of fluid overload. It is not the primary intervention for addressing crackles in the lungs.
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