Adult Health 2 Exam 1 Related

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While caring for a client who is being mechanically ventilated, the nurse responds to a high-pressure alarm on the ventilator. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?

  • A. Endotracheal cuff pressure greater than 25 cm H2O.
  • B. Decreased lung compliance during ventilation.
  • C. Bilateral crackles with increased secretions.
  • D. Restless client who is biting the endotracheal tube.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A restless client biting the endotracheal tube can increase airway resistance, triggering the high-pressure alarm and indicating a need for immediate intervention. This behavior can lead to complications such as dislodgement of the tube or airway obstruction. Endotracheal cuff pressure greater than 25 cm H2O, decreased lung compliance, and bilateral crackles with increased secretions are important assessments but do not directly address the urgent need to intervene when a high-pressure alarm is triggered.