A nurse is caring for a client who has a chest tube that was inserted 4 days ago. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the charge nurse?
Respiratory rate 16/min
Blood pressure 110/70 mm Hg
400 mL of drainage in the collection chamber within 4 hr
Fluctuation in the water seal chamber with respiration
The Correct Answer is C
A. Respiratory rate 16/min is a normal finding. A respiratory rate of 16/min is within the expected range for adults, so it does not indicate a problem that requires immediate attention.
B. Blood pressure 110/70 mm Hg is within the normal range for blood pressure. This is an acceptable finding and does not require reporting to the charge nurse.
C. 400 mL of drainage in the collection chamber within 4 hr should be reported to the charge nurse. This is an excessive amount of drainage for a client with a chest tube. After the first few hours post-surgery, the drainage should decrease. Large amounts of drainage may indicate bleeding, and it is important to notify the charge nurse immediately to assess the situation further.
D. Fluctuation in the water seal chamber with respiration is a normal finding. It is expected for the water seal chamber to fluctuate with the client’s respirations, indicating that the chest tube is functioning properly and the system is not obstructed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Patient care technician is incorrect. A patient care technician (PCT) is typically responsible for assisting with basic care tasks, such as taking vital signs or helping with personal hygiene. A PCT is not qualified to assess or manage medication interactions.
B. Psychologist is incorrect. A psychologist specializes in mental health and behavior but does not have the expertise to manage or review medication interactions.
C. Advanced practice nurse is correct. An advanced practice nurse (APN), such as a nurse practitioner, has advanced education and training in pharmacology and the management of complex medication regimens. They can assess potential medication interactions and provide guidance on safe medication use.
D. Social worker is incorrect. While a social worker provides support in areas like coping with illness and accessing resources, they are not typically involved in managing or reviewing medication interactions.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The AP points the probe posteriorly is incorrect. When using a tympanic thermometer for adults or children older than 3 years, the probe should be directed posteriorly and slightly upwards to align with the ear canal. The posterior direction is correct for adults, but this phrasing is not precise enough for the intended technique.
B. The AP pulls the pinna up and back is correct. When taking the temperature of a client older than 3 years using a tympanic thermometer, the pinna (ear) should be pulled up and back to straighten the ear canal and ensure accurate measurement. This action indicates the AP understands proper technique.
C. The AP positions the client facing her is incorrect. The client’s position does not directly affect the ability to take a tympanic temperature. The focus should be on positioning the ear and probe, not on facing the nurse.
D. The AP inserts the probe with a straight, forward motion is incorrect. The correct motion is straight into the ear canal, not forward, and it is more precise when the probe is inserted gently without forcing it.
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