A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has a chest tube in place following a thoracotomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Empty the drainage container every 4 hr.
Change the client's insertion-site dressing each shift.
Clamp the chest tube when the client is ambulating.
Place the drainage unit below the client's chest level.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This is an incorrect action, because emptying the drainage container every 4 hr is not necessary and can interfere with the accurate measurement of the drainage volume. The drainage container should be emptied only when it is full or at the end of the shift.
Choice B reason: This is an incorrect action, because changing the client's insertion-site dressing each shift can increase the risk of infection and dislodgment of the chest tube. The insertion-site dressing should be changed only when it is soiled or loose.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect action, because clamping the chest tube when the client is ambulating can cause a tension pneumothorax, which is a life-threatening complication of chest tube insertion. The chest tube should be clamped only when ordered by the provider or when changing the drainage system.
Choice D reason: This is the correct action, because placing the drainage unit below the client's chest level can facilitate the drainage of air and fluid from the pleural space by gravity. The drainage unit should be kept below the client's chest level at all times.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the correct information, because pursed-lip breathing can help improve gas exchange by creating positive pressure in the airways, preventing air trapping and alveolar collapse, and increasing the exhalation time.
Choice B reason: This is an incorrect information, because limiting fluid intake to 1,500 ml per day can cause dehydration and thickening of the respiratory secretions, which can impair gas exchange and increase the risk of infection.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect information, because practicing chest breathing each day can worsen gas exchange by increasing the use of accessory muscles, decreasing the diaphragmatic excursion, and reducing the lung expansion.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect information, because wearing home oxygen to maintain an SpO2 of at least 94% can be harmful for a client who has emphysema, as it can suppress the hypoxic drive and cause carbon dioxide retention, which can lead to respiratory acidosis and coma. The client who has emphysema should wear home oxygen to maintain an SpO2 of 88% to 92%, or as prescribed by the provider.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the best intervention, because offering the client a bedpan every 2 hr can help prevent urinary retention, bladder distension, and infection, which can worsen the incontinence. It can also help maintain the client's dignity and comfort, and promote bladder retraining.
Choice B reason: This is an incorrect intervention, because limiting the client's daily fluid intake can cause dehydration, constipation, and urinary tract infection, which can aggravate the incontinence. The client should drink adequate fluids, unless the provider instructs otherwise.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect intervention, because requesting a prescription for an indwelling urinary catheter is not recommended for a client who has occasional urinary incontinence. An indwelling urinary catheter can increase the risk of infection, trauma, and obstruction, and interfere with the bladder function. The nurse should use other methods of bladder management, such as intermittent catheterization, external catheter, or incontinence pads.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect intervention, because ambulating the client to the bathroom every 30 min can be unrealistic, exhausting, and unsafe for a client who has hemiplegia, or paralysis of one side of the body, due to a stroke. The client may not be able to walk or transfer without assistance, and may fall or injure themselves. The nurse should assess the client's mobility and ability to use the bathroom, and provide appropriate aids and support.
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