Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Respiratory Care Modalities Related

Review Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Respiratory Care Modalities related questions and content

The decision has been made to discharge a ventilator-dependent patient home. The nurse is developing a teaching plan for this patient and his family. What would be most important to include in this teaching plan?

  • A. Administration of inhaled corticosteroids
  • B. Assessment of neurologic status
  • C. Turning and coughing
  • D. Signs of pulmonary infection
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse teaches the patient and family about the ventilator, suctioning, tracheostomy care, signs of pulmonary infection, cuff inflation and deflation, and assessment of vital signs. Neurologic assessment and turning and coughing are less important than signs and symptoms of infection. Inhaled corticosteroids may or may not be prescribed.