While caring for a patient following an uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), the nurse monitors the patient for which complications in the immediate postoperative period?
- A. Snoring and foul-smelling breath
- B. Infection and electrolyte imbalance
- C. Loss of voice and severe sore throat
- D. Airway obstruction and hemorrhage
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Airway obstruction and hemorrhage are critical complications to monitor after UPPP. Snoring (A) may persist initially, infection (B) is less common, and voice loss (C) is rare.
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A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD tells the nurse, 'I can feel the congestion in my lungs, and I certainly cough a lot, but I can't seem to bring anything up.' Which of the following actions should the nurse take to help this client with tenacious bronchial secretions?
- A. Maintaining a semi-Fowler's position as often as possible
- B. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 L/min
- C. Helping the client select a low-salt diet
- D. Encouraging the client to drink 2 to 3 L of water daily
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Encouraging the client to drink 2 to 3 L of water daily. Increased fluid intake helps to thin out bronchial secretions, making them easier to cough up. Step-by-step rationale:
1. Increased water intake promotes hydration, which thins mucus in the airways.
2. Thinner mucus is easier to expectorate, aiding in clearing airway congestion.
3. Adequate hydration also helps to prevent dehydration, which can further thicken secretions.
Summary:
A: Maintaining a semi-Fowler's position may help with breathing comfort but does not directly address the issue of thick secretions.
B: Administering oxygen is important for COPD patients but does not specifically target bronchial secretions.
C: Selecting a low-salt diet is beneficial for managing fluid retention but does not directly address the issue of tenacious bronchial secretions.
A client is 1-day postoperative following a left lower lobectomy and has a chest tube in place. When assessing the client's three-chamber drainage system, the nurse notes that there is no bubbling in the suction control chamber. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Continue to monitor the client as this is an expected finding.
- B. Add more water to the suction control chamber of the drainage system.
- C. Verify that the suction regulator is on and check the tubing for leaks.
- D. Milk the chest tube and dislodge any clots in the tubing that are occluding it.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Verify that the suction regulator is on and check the tubing for leaks.
Rationale:
1. Lack of bubbling in the suction control chamber indicates suction may not be working.
2. Checking the suction regulator ensures it is on and at the correct level for proper drainage.
3. Checking tubing for leaks ensures the system is intact and functioning properly.
4. This intervention addresses the potential issue of inadequate suction, which can affect the client's postoperative recovery.
Summary:
- Option A: Continuing to monitor is not appropriate as lack of bubbling suggests an issue with suction.
- Option B: Adding more water to the suction control chamber is unnecessary and does not address the root cause.
- Option D: Milking the chest tube is not recommended as it can cause trauma and dislodging clots may lead to complications.
Cognitive changes include memory problems, confusion, and disorientation. These changes:
- A. Occur in 75% of patients over age 65
- B. Are not a normal part of aging
- C. Are due to enhanced cerebral blood flow
- D. Cause senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Cognitive decline is not a normal part of aging; it may indicate underlying conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Normal aging involves mild forgetfulness but not significant impairment.
Which nursing actions would demonstrate the nurse’s understanding of the concept of providing safe care without using restraints (select all that apply)?
- A. Placing patients with fall risk in low beds.
- B. Making hourly rounds on patients to assess for pain and toileting needs.
- C. Applying a jacket vest loosely so the patient can turn but cannot climb out of bed.
- D. Placing a disruptive patient near the nurses’ station in a chair with a seat belt.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Low beds, frequent checks, and strategic placement reduce risks without resorting to physical restraints.
How can a nurse foster effective coping skills?
- A. Deep breathing exercises
- B. Avoid social interactions
- C. Ignore stressors
- D. Increase workload
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it is the most appropriate response based on physiological and medical principles.