A nurse is assisting a provider with a client who is to undergo a thoracentesis.
In which of the following positions should the nurse place the client?
Supine with the head of the bed flat.
Trendelenburg with the head flexed.
Sitting upright while leaning forward over pillows.
Lying prone with arms extended away from body.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
The supine position with the head of the bed flat does not facilitate the safe and effective draining of fluid from the pleural cavity. This position can compromise the respiratory status of the patient and is therefore not suitable for a thoracentesis.
Choice B rationale
The Trendelenburg position, where the head is lower than the feet, can increase intracranial pressure and is not suitable for thoracentesis. This position does not allow for the optimal access to the pleural space needed for the procedure.
Choice C rationale
Sitting upright while leaning forward over pillows is the ideal position for a thoracentesis. This position allows the fluid to accumulate at the base of the pleural cavity and provides easy access for the procedure. It also facilitates better breathing and reduces the risk of injury to the diaphragm and other internal structures.
Choice D rationale
Lying prone with arms extended away from the body does not provide adequate access to the pleural space for thoracentesis. This position also makes it difficult to manage and monitor the patient's respiratory status during the procedure. .
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Recent exposure to tuberculosis is the priority for the nurse to address because tuberculosis is a contagious and potentially serious infectious disease. Addressing this first helps prevent the spread of infection to other clients and healthcare staff.
Choice B rationale
While a history of generalized anxiety disorder is important, it is not the immediate priority compared to a contagious disease like tuberculosis. Anxiety can be managed with ongoing care and support.
Choice C rationale
Nocturia is a condition characterized by frequent urination at night and can indicate underlying health issues, but it is not an immediate priority compared to tuberculosis exposure.
Choice D rationale
Periodic migraine headaches can be debilitating and require management, but they do not pose an immediate risk to others like tuberculosis exposure does.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A capillary refill time of 3 seconds is slightly prolonged but not as concerning as other symptoms. Monitoring is warranted, but it is not an immediate priority.
Choice B rationale
Cool fingers can indicate reduced circulation, but it requires further assessment to determine its significance. Immediate attention is needed if accompanied by other severe symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Severe itching can be uncomfortable and may indicate skin irritation, but it is not typically a medical emergency.
Choice D rationale
Increased pain at the fracture site can indicate complications such as compartment syndrome, which requires immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent damage.
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