NCLEX RN Client Needs Physiological Adaptation Related

Review NCLEX RN Client Needs Physiological Adaptation related questions and content

The nurse suspects that an air embolism has occurred when the client's central venous catheter disconnects from the intravenous (IV) tubing. The nurse immediately places the client on her or his left side in which position?

  • A. High Fowler's
  • B. Trendelenburg's
  • C. Lateral recumbent
  • D. Reverse Trendelenburg's
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: If the client develops an air embolism, the immediate action is to place the client in Trendelenburg's position on the left side. This position raises the client's feet higher than the head and traps any air in the right atrium. If necessary, the air can then be directly removed by intracardiac aspiration.