A nurse is caring for a client who has just had a bronchoscopy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Withhold food and liquids until the client's gag reflex returns.
Irrigate the client's throat every 4 hr.
Have the client refrain from talking for 24 hr.
Suction the client's oropharynx frequently.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Withhold food and liquids until the client's gag reflex returns.
This is the correct action. After a bronchoscopy, the client's throat may be numb or irritated from the procedure, which can temporarily impair the gag reflex. Withholding food and liquids until the gag reflex returns reduces the risk of aspiration, where food or liquid enters the airway instead of the stomach. Aspiration can lead to pneumonia and other serious complications. Therefore, it's essential to assess the client's gag reflex before allowing them to eat or drink.
B. Irrigate the client's throat every 4 hours.
This action is not necessary and may even be harmful. Irrigating the client's throat every 4 hours could further irritate the throat and increase discomfort for the client. Unless specifically ordered by the healthcare provider for a specific reason, such as to remove secretions or debris, routine irrigation of the throat is not recommended after a bronchoscopy.
C. Have the client refrain from talking for 24 hours.
There is typically no need for the client to refrain from talking for 24 hours after a bronchoscopy. While the client may experience some throat discomfort and hoarseness, restricting talking for such an extended period is unnecessary and may cause undue stress or anxiety for the client. Unless specifically instructed by the healthcare provider for a valid reason, such as to allow vocal cord healing, there is no need to restrict talking for such a long duration.
D. Suction the client's oropharynx frequently.
Frequent suctioning of the client's oropharynx is not indicated unless there is a specific medical reason to do so. Excessive suctioning can cause trauma to the mucous membranes, increase the risk of infection, and exacerbate throat irritation. The decision to suction should be based on clinical assessment, such as evidence of secretions or if the client is having difficulty clearing their airway, rather than being performed routinely.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Lower oxygen saturations of 93% to 94%
In an older adult client with a pneumothorax, the nurse could expect to observe lower oxygen saturations of 93% to 94%. A pneumothorax involves the accumulation of air in the pleural space, which can compress the lung and impair gas exchange, leading to hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels). Decreased oxygen saturations would be a common finding in this condition.
B. Higher oxygen saturations of 98% to 99%
Higher oxygen saturations would be less likely in a client with a pneumothorax due to impaired gas exchange resulting from lung compression. Oxygen saturations are more likely to be lower in this condition, as indicated in option A.
C. Lower energy expenditure
While a pneumothorax may cause discomfort and dyspnea, which could potentially decrease energy expenditure due to reduced activity levels, it is not a direct physiological effect of the condition. Energy expenditure would depend on various factors, including the severity of symptoms and the individual's overall health status.
D. Increased lung capacity
A pneumothorax typically results in a decrease in lung capacity rather than an increase. The accumulation of air in the pleural space causes partial or complete collapse of the affected lung, reducing its ability to expand and decreasing overall lung capacity. Therefore, increased lung capacity would not be expected in a client with a pneumothorax.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Offer small frequent meals
Offering small, frequent meals is beneficial for patients with COPD because it helps overcome the challenges associated with dyspnea and fatigue. Large meals can cause discomfort and increase the effort required for breathing, which can exacerbate respiratory symptoms. By providing smaller, more manageable portions of food throughout the day, patients with COPD can maintain their energy levels and meet their nutritional needs without experiencing excessive respiratory distress.
B. Encourage extra liquids with meals
Encouraging extra liquids with meals can help prevent dehydration and thin respiratory secretions, making it easier for patients with COPD to manage their respiratory symptoms. However, excessive fluid intake can also lead to feelings of fullness and discomfort, especially in patients with compromised lung function. Therefore, while it's important to encourage adequate hydration, particularly during meals, it's also essential to balance fluid intake to avoid exacerbating respiratory symptoms.
C. Assist the patient to exercise before meals
While regular exercise is beneficial for overall health and can help improve respiratory function in patients with COPD, exercising immediately before meals may not be practical or advisable for all patients. Patients with COPD may experience fatigue and dyspnea during physical activity, which can affect their ability to eat and digest food effectively. Additionally, exercising before meals may increase energy expenditure and exacerbate respiratory symptoms, making it more challenging for patients to consume an adequate amount of nutrients. Instead, patients with COPD may benefit from engaging in light physical activity or respiratory exercises at a different time of day to improve their respiratory function and overall well-being.
D. Supply information about nutrition
Providing information about nutrition is essential for patients with COPD to help them make healthy dietary choices and manage their condition effectively. However, simply supplying information may not be sufficient to enhance the nutritional status of patients with COPD. It's important to offer practical guidance and support, such as meal planning tips, dietary modifications, and strategies for overcoming barriers to healthy eating. Additionally, individualized dietary counseling from a registered dietitian can be beneficial for patients with COPD to address specific nutritional needs and preferences.
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