NCLEX Neurological Disorders Related

Review NCLEX Neurological Disorders related questions and content

The nurse is assisting the client who sustained a C5 SCI to cough using the quad coughing technique. The nurse correctly demonstrates quad coughing with which actions? Select all that apply.

  • A. Places a suction catheter in the client’s oral cavity to stimulate the cough reflex
  • B. Puts hands on the upper abdomen, has client inhale, pushes upward during a cough
  • C. Cups the hands and percusses the client’s anterior, lateral, and posterior lung fields
  • D. Hyperoxygenates the client by using a resuscitation bag to deliver 100% oxygen
  • E. Elevates the head of the bed to a high Fowler’s position if the client is sitting in bed
Correct Answer: B,E

Rationale: Stimulating a cough with a suction catheter is not associated with the quad cough technique, and it may cause regurgitation. The nurse’s hand placement and pushing upward during a cough help to overcome the impaired diaphragmatic function that occurs with a C5 SCI. Cupping the hands and percussing the lung fields is a technique to loosen secretions but is not the quad coughing technique. Hyperoxygenating the client is a measure to prevent hypoxia associated with suctioning but is not included in the quad coughing technique. Elevating the head of the bed will promote lung expansion, thus enabling a stronger cough.