A nurse is caring for a client who develops an airway obstruction from a foreign body but remains conscious. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Perform a blind finger sweep.
Turn the client to the side.
Insert an oral airway.
Administer the abdominal thrust maneuver.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Perform a Blind Finger Sweep
Performing a blind finger sweep is not recommended because it can push the foreign object further into the airway, making the obstruction worse. This method is only advised if the object is clearly visible and can be safely removed without causing further harm.
Choice B reason: Turn the Client to the Side
Turning the client to the side can be helpful in certain situations, such as when the client is unconscious or at risk of vomiting. However, in the case of a conscious client with a foreign body airway obstruction, this action does not directly address the obstruction and is not the first priority.
Choice C reason: Insert an Oral Airway
Inserting an oral airway is typically used to maintain an open airway in an unconscious patient who cannot maintain their own airway. For a conscious client with a foreign body obstruction, this action is not appropriate and could cause further complications.
Choice D reason: Administer the Abdominal Thrust Maneuver
Administering the abdominal thrust maneuver (also known as the Heimlich maneuver) is the recommended first action for a conscious client with a foreign body airway obstruction. This technique involves standing behind the client, placing a fist just above their navel, and delivering quick, upward thrusts to expel the foreign object. This method is effective in creating an artificial cough that can dislodge the obstruction.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Unlike Chickenpox, the Vesicles of Smallpox Are More Abundant on the Face
This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching. Smallpox lesions are indeed more abundant on the face and extremities compared to chickenpox, which tends to have a more central distribution on the trunk. Smallpox lesions are also typically more uniform in their stage of development, whereas chickenpox lesions can appear in various stages of healing simultaneously.
Choice B reason: Smallpox Lesions Appear in Various Stages of Healing
This statement is incorrect. Unlike chickenpox, where lesions can be in different stages of healing at the same time, smallpox lesions generally progress through the same stages simultaneously. This uniformity in lesion development is a distinguishing feature of smallpox.
Choice C reason: Vaccination Against Smallpox Provides Lifelong Immunity
This statement is partially correct but needs clarification. The smallpox vaccine provides long-lasting immunity, but it may not be lifelong. Immunity can wane over time, and booster vaccinations may be necessary for continued protection.
Choice D reason: There Are Rare, Occasional Occurrences of Smallpox
This statement is incorrect. Smallpox was declared eradicated in 1980 by the World Health Organization (WHO). There have been no naturally occurring cases of smallpox since then. The only known stocks of the virus are kept in secure laboratories for research purposes.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Promoting oral hygiene is important for preventing infection and maintaining overall health, especially after surgery involving the mouth. However, it is not the immediate priority in the postoperative period.
Choice B reason:
Ensuring adequate nutrition is crucial for healing and recovery, but it is not the most urgent concern immediately after surgery. Nutritional needs can be addressed once the client is stable and the risk of complications has been minimized.
Choice C reason:
Preventing aspiration is the priority action. After surgery for a fractured mandible with intermaxillary fixation, the client is at high risk for aspiration due to the inability to open the mouth and clear secretions effectively. Aspiration can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, making it the most critical concern.

Choice D reason:
Relieving the client’s pain is important for comfort and recovery, but it is not the highest priority immediately after surgery. Pain management should be addressed once the client’s airway and breathing are secure.
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