Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has postoperative atelectasis and is hypoxic. Which of the following manifestations should the healthcare professional expect?

  • A. Bradycardia
  • B. Bradypnea
  • C. Lethargy
  • D. Intercostal retractions
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Intercostal retractions. In postoperative atelectasis, there is a collapse of lung tissue leading to decreased oxygen exchange and hypoxia. Intercostal retractions indicate increased work of breathing as the body tries to compensate for the decreased lung function. Bradycardia and bradypnea are not typically associated with hypoxia but rather with decreased oxygen delivery to tissues. Lethargy is a nonspecific symptom and may not directly correlate with hypoxia in this scenario.