A client with a medical diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is being placed in the prone position. The nurse explains to family members that, "This will help improve ventilation by:
allowing undamaged areas in the lower part of the lungs to be ventilated."
relieving pressure on the diaphragm and allowing expansion."
decreasing pressure to the back of the rib cage."
snifting fluid into the back area of the lungs.'
The Correct Answer is A
A. Allowing undamaged areas in the lower part of the lungs to be ventilated: The prone position is commonly used in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) to improve oxygenation and ventilation. In ARDS, the lung tissue is often damaged, particularly in the dorsal (back) regions of the lungs, due to gravity and ventilation-perfusion mismatch. By placing the patient in the prone position, gravity helps redistribute the blood flow and improve ventilation to the posterior (lower) parts of the lungs, which are typically under-ventilated in the supine position. This positioning allows healthier or less-damaged areas of the lungs to receive better airflow, improving overall oxygenation.
B. Relieving pressure on the diaphragm and allowing expansion: While the prone position does shift pressure away from certain areas, its primary benefit is not related to relieving pressure on the diaphragm. The diaphragm, while somewhat affected by body position, is not the key structure being targeted for ventilation improvement. The main goal of prone positioning is to improve lung aeration in areas affected by ARDS, not directly to relieve diaphragm pressure.
C. Decreasing pressure to the back of the rib cage: The prone position does not specifically target reducing pressure to the back of the rib cage. Although it changes how pressure is distributed across the body, the main goal is to facilitate better ventilation and perfusion to the posterior lung regions, not necessarily to reduce pressure on the rib cage itself.
D. Sniffing fluid into the back area of the lungs: This option is unclear and not accurate. The prone position does not "sniff" fluid into the lungs; rather, it helps to redistribute fluid and improve the ventilation of the lung areas that are less affected by edema or inflammation in ARDS. The goal is to improve the ventilation/perfusion ratio and prevent further collapse of lung tissue.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Use pyridostigmine as needed to relieve symptoms of muscle weakness and fatigue: Pyridostigmine should not be used on an "as-needed" basis, as it is a long-acting medication that works by maintaining a steady level of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. The client needs to take the medication regularly at prescribed intervals, not sporadically, to maintain consistent symptom control. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of the medication's use.
B. Be able to crush the sustained release tablet because of difficulty swallowing: Sustained-release (or extended-release) tablets should not be crushed because doing so can cause the medication to be released too quickly, leading to potential side effects or overdose. If the client has difficulty swallowing, an alternative form of the medication, such as a liquid or split tablet, should be considered. This statement reflects a lack of understanding regarding the proper administration of the medication.
C. Skip a dose if I have symptoms of fatigue to minimize side effects of the medications: Skipping doses of pyridostigmine is not appropriate. The medication should be taken as prescribed, even if the client feels fatigued. Fatigue is a symptom of myasthenia gravis, not necessarily a side effect of the medication. Consistent dosing is important for controlling the disease and preventing worsening of symptoms. Skipping doses can lead to inadequate symptom control and potential exacerbation of weakness.
D. Take pyridostigmine 30-60 minutes before meals to improve muscle function: This statement indicates that the client understands the appropriate use of pyridostigmine for managing myasthenia gravis (MG). Pyridostigmine is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that helps improve neuromuscular transmission, and it is typically taken 30-60 minutes before meals. This timing helps optimize muscle strength during the period when the client is eating, as muscle weakness can make swallowing more difficult. By taking the medication before meals, the client is more likely to experience improved muscle function when needed most.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I will report any unusual movements or behaviors to my healthcare provider."
This statement is correct and indicates that the client understands the potential side effects of levodopa/carbidopa. The medication can cause dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements) and other behavioral changes, so the client should report these symptoms to their healthcare provider for possible adjustment of the treatment plan.
B. "I may experience nausea while taking this medication."
This is also correct. Nausea is a common side effect of levodopa/carbidopa, especially when starting the medication. Taking it with food may help reduce this side effect, but some clients may still experience nausea.
C. "I will take this medication with a high-protein meal."
This statement is incorrect. Levodopa is absorbed best on an empty stomach or with a low-protein meal. Protein can interfere with the absorption of levodopa because amino acids (found in proteins) compete with levodopa for absorption across the blood-brain barrier. Therefore, it's recommended that levodopa/carbidopa be taken either 30 minutes before or 1 hour after meals, especially those high in protein.
D. "I will avoid sudden changes in position to prevent dizziness or falls."
This statement is correct. Levodopa/carbidopa can cause orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up), which increases the risk of dizziness and falls. The client should be advised to change positions slowly and use support when rising from a sitting or lying position to avoid injury.
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