A nurse is caring for a client 1 day postoperative who has developed atelectasis. Which of the following manifestations is an expected finding for this condition?
Hypoxemia
Apnea
Pleural effusion
Dysphagia
The Correct Answer is A
A) Hypoxemia:
This is the correct answer. Atelectasis, which is the collapse or incomplete inflation of the lung, can lead to impaired gas exchange and subsequent hypoxemia. As lung volume decreases due to collapse, ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) mismatch occurs, resulting in decreased oxygenation of arterial blood. Hypoxemia is a common finding in individuals with atelectasis and may manifest as decreased oxygen saturation levels on pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas analysis.
B) Apnea:
Apnea, defined as the cessation of breathing, is not typically associated with atelectasis. While atelectasis can contribute to respiratory compromise and may result in respiratory distress, including tachypnea or increased work of breathing, it does not usually lead to complete cessation of breathing.
C) Pleural effusion:
A pleural effusion is the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space surrounding the lungs. While pleural effusion may occur concurrently with atelectasis, it is not an expected finding specifically associated with atelectasis itself. Pleural effusion may cause respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea or chest pain but is not a primary manifestation of atelectasis.
D) Dysphagia:
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is unrelated to atelectasis. While dysphagia can occur as a result of various conditions affecting the esophagus or neurological control of swallowing, it is not a typical manifestation of atelectasis. Atelectasis primarily affects the lungs and respiratory function rather than swallowing function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Bicarbonate:
While bicarbonate levels may be relevant in some cases, they are not typically a primary consideration before administering furosemide. Furosemide primarily affects electrolyte balance, particularly potassium and sodium, rather than bicarbonate levels.
B) Potassium:
This is the correct answer. Before administering furosemide, it is essential to review the client's potassium levels because furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to potassium depletion. Monitoring potassium levels helps prevent hypokalemia, which can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias and other complications, especially in clients with heart failure.
C) Phosphate:
Phosphate levels are not typically a primary concern before administering furosemide. Furosemide primarily affects sodium and potassium levels rather than phosphate levels.
D) Carbon dioxide:
Carbon dioxide levels are not typically a primary consideration before administering furosemide. Furosemide primarily affects electrolyte balance rather than carbon dioxide levels.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Weight and caloric intake:
While weight and caloric intake are important aspects of overall health assessment, they are not directly related to the administration of beta-adrenergic blocking agents. These medications primarily affect cardiovascular function, so assessing pulse and blood pressure is more pertinent.
B) Pulse and blood pressure:
This is the correct answer. Before administering beta-adrenergic blocking agents, it is essential to assess the client's pulse rate and blood pressure. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, leading to a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. Monitoring these vital signs helps determine the appropriateness of administering the medication and allows for adjustments based on the client's current cardiovascular status.
C) Serum sodium level:
Assessing serum sodium level is not typically necessary before administering beta-adrenergic blocking agents. While electrolyte imbalances can occur as a result of certain medications or health conditions, beta blockers do not directly affect serum sodium levels.
D) Serum albumin level:
Assessing serum albumin level is not specifically indicated before administering beta-adrenergic blocking agents. Serum albumin levels may be assessed in clients with certain conditions such as liver or kidney disease, but it is not a routine assessment before administering beta blockers.
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