HESI CAT Exam 2022 Related

Review HESI CAT Exam 2022 related questions and content

When caring for a client with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), why does the nurse elevate the head of the bed 30 degrees?

  • A. To reduce abdominal pressure on the diaphragm
  • B. To promote retraction of the intercostal accessory muscles of respiration
  • C. To promote bronchodilation and effective airway clearance
  • D. To decrease pressure on the medullary center which stimulates breathing
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed to 30 degrees is done to reduce abdominal pressure on the diaphragm, aiding in lung expansion and oxygenation. This position helps improve respiratory mechanics by allowing the diaphragm to move more effectively. Choice B is incorrect as elevating the head of the bed does not directly promote retraction of the intercostal accessory muscles of respiration. Choice C is incorrect because although elevating the head of the bed can assist with airway clearance, its primary purpose in ARDS is to decrease pressure on the diaphragm. Choice D is incorrect because reducing pressure on the medullary center is not the main goal of elevating the head of the bed; the focus is on enhancing lung function and oxygen exchange.