To verify the correct placement of an endotracheal tube (ET) after insertion, the best initial action by the nurse is to:
auscultate for the presence of bilateral breath sounds.
Use an end-tidal C02 monitor to check for placement in the trachea.
Observe the chest for symmetrical movement with ventilation.
Obtain a portable chest radiograph to check tube placement.
None
None
The Correct Answer is B
A. Auscultate for the presence of bilateral breath sounds.
It's an important check, but it is not the most reliable initial method because breath sounds can sometimes be misleading (for example, sounds may be heard in the stomach or transmitted incorrectly).
B. Use an end-tidal CO₂ monitor to check for placement in the trachea.
It's the correct answer. Continuous waveform capnography or end-tidal CO₂ detection is the most reliable and immediate method to confirm that the endotracheal tube is in the trachea and not in the esophagus. Presence of CO₂ indicates effective airway placement.
C. Observe the chest for symmetrical movement with ventilation.
Chest rise is helpful, but it is not specific both esophageal and tracheal intubation may show chest movement.
D. Obtain a portable chest radiograph to check tube placement.
It's the gold standard for final confirmation, but it is not the initial bedside method because it takes time.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is a blood product that contains various clotting factors, including factors II, V, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, and XIII. These clotting factors are essential for the normal coagulation process. In patients with shock, coagulation abnormalities can occur, and administration of FFP can help replenish the deficient clotting factors and restore proper coagulation function.
The other options mentioned are not the primary components replaced by fresh frozen plasma:
A. Red blood cells are in (option A) is incorrect because Red blood cells carry oxygen and are typically replaced by packed red blood cell transfusions in cases of significant blood loss or anemia. Fresh frozen plasma does not contain a significant amount of red blood cells.
C. Platelets in (option C) is incorrect because: Platelets play a role in blood clotting and are typically replaced by platelet transfusions in cases of thrombocytopenia or platelet dysfunction. Fresh frozen plasma may contain a small number of platelets but is not the primary source for platelet replacement.
D. White blood cells in (option D) is incorrect because White blood cells are part of the immune system and are not typically replaced using fresh frozen plasma. Fresh frozen plasma does not contain a significant amount of white blood cells.
Therefore, fresh frozen plasma is primarily administered to patients in shock to replace clotting factors and help restore proper coagulation function.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Oxygen saturation of 92% in (option A) is incorrect because While an oxygen saturation of 92% is suboptimal and may require intervention, it may not have the same immediate implications as low blood pressure. The healthcare provider should be informed, but addressing the blood pressure takes priority.
B. Skin cool and clammy in (option B) is correct because Cool and clammy skin is often associated with inadequate peripheral perfusion, which is a characteristic of septic shock.
C. Septic shock is characterized by systemic inflammation, vasodilation, and hypotension. Inadequate blood pressure is a significant concern in septic shock as it indicates poor tissue perfusion and compromised organ function. However, the mean arterial pressure is till acceptable.
D. Heart rate of 118 beats/minute in (option D) is incorrect because: Tachycardia is a common finding in septic shock and reflects the body's compensatory response to maintain cardiac output. While it is a significant finding, low blood pressure takes precedence in terms of urgency.
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