A client who has been mechanically ventilated for 5 days following ARDS is being evaluated for weaning readiness. The respiratory therapist reports the following parameters: Rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI) of 85, negative inspiratory force (NIF) of -28 cm H2O, spontaneous tidal volume of 6 mL/kg, and FiO2 requirement of 40% to maintain SpO2 >92%. Which parameter indicates the client may NOT be ready for weaning?
RSBI of 85 breaths/min/L
NIF of 28 cm H20
Spontaneous tidal volume of 6 mL/kg
FiO2 requirement of 40%
The Correct Answer is D
A. The Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI) is calculated as the ratio of respiratory rate to tidal volume (in liters). An RSBI <105 is generally considered favorable for weaning. A value of 85 indicates the patient is breathing efficiently and may be ready to wean.
B. Negative inspiratory force measures inspiratory muscle strength. Values more negative than -20 to -30 cm H2O are considered adequate. A NIF of -28 cm H2O indicates sufficient inspiratory strength for spontaneous breathing.
C. A tidal volume ≥5 mL/kg is generally acceptable for weaning. A value of 6 mL/kg indicates adequate ventilation during spontaneous breathing trials.
D. A FiO2 >40% to maintain adequate oxygen saturation indicates ongoing oxygenation impairment, suggesting the client may not yet be ready for weaning. Successful weaning usually requires an FiO2 ≤40% and PEEP ≤5 cm H2O to maintain SpO2 ≥90–92%, ensuring the lungs can sustain oxygenation without excessive support.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Although it may seem intuitive to cool the bite site, ice is not recommendedin snakebite management. Cooling can damage local tissueand does not slow the systemic spread of venom. Applying ice can actually worsen tissue injury and delay healing.
B. Techniques such as suction or cutting the bite siteare outdated and ineffective. Studies show that attempting to extract venom orally does not remove enough venom to impact outcomesand increases the risk of infection or further tissue damage.
C. Tourniquets are contraindicatedbecause they can restrict blood flow, leading to tissue ischemia, necrosis, and permanent damage. Additionally, sudden release of a tourniquet may cause a surge of venom into the circulation, worsening systemic toxicity.
D. Immobilization helps slow lymphatic spread of venom, reducing systemic absorption. Keeping the limb at or slightly below heart levelprevents unnecessary venom circulation while avoiding excessive swelling that would occur if the limb were elevated above the heart. The patient should remain calm and limit movementto reduce venom distribution. Emergency medical services should be contacted immediately for assessment, antivenom administration if indicated, and monitoring of vital signs and systemic effects.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Norepinephrine is a potent vasoconstrictor, and if it infiltrates peripheral tissue, it can cause severe tissue necrosis and extravasation injury. Administering it through a central venous catheteris the highest priority safety measurewhen initiating the infusion to prevent serious complications.
B. Continuous cardiac monitoring is importantbecause norepinephrine can cause tachycardia, arrhythmias, and increased myocardial oxygen demand, but the risk of tissue injury from peripheral administration is more immediately critical.
C. Assessing baseline blood glucose is not a priorityfor norepinephrine administration. Blood glucose monitoring may be relevant in critical care, but it does not directly prevent complications from norepinephrine infusion.
D. Documenting the client’s level of consciousness is important for ongoing assessment of perfusion and neurological status, but it is not the highest-priority actionat the time of initiating a vasopressor infusion.
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