A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled to undergo thoracentesis. In which of the following positions should the nurse place the client for the procedure?
Prone with arms raised over the head.
Sitting, leaning forward over the bedside table.
High Fowler's position
Side-lying with knees drawn up to the chest.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Prone with arms raised over the head.
This position involves lying face down with the arms raised over the head. It is not appropriate for thoracentesis because it does not provide easy access to the thoracic cavity, and it may compress the chest, making it difficult for the client to breathe comfortably during the procedure.
B. Sitting, leaning forward over the bedside table.
This is the correct choice. For thoracentesis, the client should be positioned sitting upright and leaning forward over the bedside table or supported by pillows. This position allows better access to the thoracic cavity and facilitates the removal of pleural fluid. Leaning forward also helps to open up the intercostal spaces, making it easier for the healthcare provider to insert the needle into the appropriate space between the ribs.
C. High Fowler's position.
The High Fowler's position involves the client sitting upright with the head of the bed elevated at a 90-degree angle. While this position may be used for other respiratory procedures or for comfort, it is not the optimal position for thoracentesis. It does not provide the same degree of access to the thoracic cavity as the sitting position with forward leaning.
D. Side-lying with knees drawn up to the chest.
This position involves lying on one side with the knees drawn up to the chest. It is not appropriate for thoracentesis because it does not provide access to the thoracic cavity, and it may obstruct the procedure. Additionally, this position may not be comfortable for the client during the procedure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Rest in a supine position.
This option is not recommended for improving gas exchange in emphysema. Resting in a supine position can lead to decreased lung expansion and increased dyspnea in individuals with emphysema. Optimal lung expansion is crucial for efficient gas exchange, and certain positions, such as sitting upright or using pillows to support the head and chest, are preferred to facilitate breathing.
B. Consume a low-protein diet.
A low-protein diet is not directly related to improving gas exchange in emphysema. In fact, adequate protein intake is important for maintaining overall health and supporting respiratory muscle function. Protein is necessary for tissue repair and maintaining muscle strength, including the respiratory muscles. Therefore, a balanced diet that includes adequate protein intake is recommended for individuals with emphysema.
C. Breathe in through her nose and out through pursed lips.
This is the correct choice. Breathing in through the nose and out through pursed lips helps to create positive pressure in the airways during exhalation. This positive pressure helps to keep the airways open, prevents premature collapse of the air sacs (alveoli), and facilitates more effective gas exchange. It also slows down the rate of breathing, reduces the work of breathing, and can alleviate shortness of breath (dyspnea) in individuals with emphysema.
D. Limit fluid intake throughout the day.
Limiting fluid intake throughout the day is not recommended for improving gas exchange in emphysema. Adequate hydration is important for thinning respiratory secretions, which can make it easier to clear mucus from the airways. Dehydration can worsen respiratory symptoms and increase the risk of complications. Therefore, maintaining adequate fluid intake is essential for individuals with emphysema.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Spoon nails
Spoon nails, also known as koilonychia, refer to a concave or spoon-shaped deformity of the nails. This finding is associated with conditions such as iron deficiency anemia or certain systemic diseases, but it is not specifically associated with COPD.
B. Peripheral edema
Peripheral edema, or swelling of the extremities, is not a typical finding in COPD. It may occur in conditions such as heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease, but it is not directly related to COPD unless there are comorbid conditions contributing to fluid retention.
C. Pleural friction rub
Pleural friction rub refers to a creaking or grating sound heard on auscultation of the lungs, typically during inspiration and expiration. It occurs when the inflamed pleural surfaces rub against each other. While pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid in the pleural space) may occur as a complication of COPD, pleural friction rub is not a typical finding in uncomplicated COPD.
D. Barrel chest
Barrel chest is a common finding in clients with COPD. It refers to an increased anterior-posterior diameter of the chest, giving it a rounded appearance similar to that of a barrel. This occurs due to hyperinflation of the lungs, which is characteristic of COPD, particularly in advanced stages. The hyperinflation leads to chronic air trapping and increased residual volume in the lungs, causing the chest to become enlarged and rounded.
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