Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

A client in the intensive care unit is receiving teaching before removal of an endotracheal tube. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

  • A. Rest in a side-lying position after the tube is removed.
  • B. Use the incentive spirometer every 4 hours after the tube is removed.
  • C. Avoid speaking for extended periods.
  • D. Vital signs will be monitored by a nurse every 15 minutes in the first hour after the tube is removed.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Avoid speaking for extended periods. This instruction is important to prevent strain on the vocal cords and reduce the risk of aspiration or airway irritation post-extubation. Speaking after the removal of the endotracheal tube can potentially lead to complications.

Step-by-step rationale:
1. Speaking can cause strain on the vocal cords, which may lead to hoarseness or damage.
2. It is essential to allow the airway to recover and prevent irritation or inflammation.
3. Resting the voice can aid in the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.
4. Incentive spirometer use (option B) is important for lung expansion but not directly related to vocal cord rest.
5. Vital signs monitoring (option D) is crucial but does not address vocal cord care or prevention of complications.
6. Resting in a side-lying position (option A) is not directly related to vocal cord rest or post-extubation care.