What condition is the patient most likely experiencing, what two actions should the nurse take to address that condition, and what two parameters should the nurse monitor to assess the patient’s progress?
Potential Condition: Bleeding, Actions to Take: Observe surgical dressing, obtain blood cultures, Parameters to Monitor: Blood pressure, Patient’s performance of lung expansion exercises.
Potential Condition: Air leak, Actions to Take: Check the drainage system, Parameters to Monitor: Respiratory status, Chest tube drainage.
Potential Condition: Pulmonary edema.
Potential Condition: Pneumonia.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While bleeding is a potential complication following a thoracotomy, the actions and parameters listed do not align with the care of a patient with a chest tube.
Choice B rationale
An air leak is a potential complication following a thoracotomy with chest tube insertion. The nurse should check the drainage system and monitor the patient’s respiratory status and chest tube drainage.
Choice C rationale
Pulmonary edema is a potential complication following a thoracotomy, but the actions and parameters listed do not align with the care of a patient with a chest tube.
Choice D rationale
Pneumonia is a potential complication following a thoracotomy, but the actions and parameters listed do not align with the care of a patient with a chest tube.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Offering high-protein and high-carbohydrate foods frequently is an important intervention for a client who has acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)4. These nutrients can provide the energy needed for the increased metabolic demands of ARDS and support the healing process.
Choice B rationale
Administering low-flow oxygen continuously via nasal cannula is not typically the main treatment for ARDS5. ARDS is a severe condition that often requires high levels of supplemental oxygen delivered through methods that can provide higher concentrations of oxygen than a nasal cannula.
Choice C rationale
Encouraging oral intake of at least 3,000 mL of fluids per day is not a typical intervention for a client with ARDS4. While adequate hydration is important, too much fluid can worsen lung function in clients with ARDS4. Fluid management in ARDS is typically carefully controlled and may involve diuretics to remove excess fluid.
Choice D rationale
Repositioning and placing the client in a prone position is not a typical intervention for all clients with ARDS4. While some clients with severe ARDS may benefit from prone positioning, this is not a standard intervention for all clients with ARDS4.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While bleeding is a potential complication following a thoracotomy, the actions and parameters listed do not align with the care of a patient with a chest tube.
Choice B rationale
An air leak is a potential complication following a thoracotomy with chest tube insertion. The nurse should check the drainage system and monitor the patient’s respiratory status and chest tube drainage.
Choice C rationale
Pulmonary edema is a potential complication following a thoracotomy, but the actions and parameters listed do not align with the care of a patient with a chest tube.
Choice D rationale
Pneumonia is a potential complication following a thoracotomy, but the actions and parameters listed do not align with the care of a patient with a chest tube.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.