A nurse is caring for a patient at risk for atelectasis.
Which independent nursing measure should the nurse prioritize to prevent the development of atelectasis?
Ambulation.
Oxygen therapy.
Incentive spirometry.
Increase oral fluid intake.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Ambulation is a general measure that can help improve overall lung function by promoting deep breathing, coughing, and mobilization of secretions. However, it is not the primary measure to prevent atelectasis.
Choice B rationale
Oxygen therapy is used to treat hypoxia, which can be a result of atelectasis. However, it does not directly prevent the development of atelectasis.
Choice C rationale
Incentive spirometry is a first-line measure to prevent atelectasis. It encourages deep breathing, which helps keep the alveoli inflated and can prevent them from collapsing, thus preventing atelectasis.
Choice D rationale
Increasing oral fluid intake can help to thin secretions, making them easier to mobilize. However, it is not the primary measure to prevent atelectasis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Implementing ventilator-weaning protocols is a crucial intervention in the care plan for a patient on a ventilator to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. These protocols aim to minimize the patient’s exposure to mechanical ventilation, which is a significant risk factor for developing ventilator-associated pneumonia. By systematically reducing the level of ventilatory support, these protocols facilitate the earliest possible liberation from mechanical ventilation, thereby reducing the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia.
Choice B rationale
Providing frequent oral care is another essential intervention in preventing ventilator- associated pneumonia. Oral health can quickly deteriorate in mechanically ventilated patients, leading to an increased risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Regular oral care, including the use of antiseptics, can help reduce the number of potential respiratory pathogens in the oral cavity and prevent their aspiration into the lower respiratory tract.
Choice C rationale
Suctioning the patient every hour is not typically recommended as a standard intervention to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. Over-suctioning can lead to trauma and inflammation in the airway, potentially increasing the risk of infection. Suctioning should be performed based on the patient’s needs and clinical signs, rather than on a fixed schedule.
Choice D rationale
Positioning the patient in a semi-upright position (30 to 45 degrees), rather than a prone position, is recommended to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. This position helps to reduce the risk of aspiration, which is a major risk factor for ventilator-associated pneumonia.
Choice E rationale
Avoiding suctioning the patient is not a recommended strategy for preventing ventilator- associated pneumonia. Suctioning is necessary to clear secretions from the airway, and its omission could potentially increase the risk of infection. However, as mentioned earlier, suctioning should be performed based on the patient’s needs and clinical signs, rather than on a fixed schedule.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Following ventilator-weaning protocols is an important intervention to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. Weaning protocols help to reduce the duration of mechanical ventilation, which is a risk factor for developing ventilator-associated pneumonia.
Choice B rationale
Providing frequent mouth care is a key intervention in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia. Good oral hygiene can help to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth that can potentially be aspirated into the lungs.
Choice C rationale
Suctioning the patient every hour is not typically recommended as a method to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. Over-suctioning can potentially damage the lung tissue and mucous membranes, and it can also increase the risk of introducing bacteria into the lungs.
Choice D rationale
Placing the patient in a prone position can help to improve oxygenation and reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia. The prone position can help to drain secretions from the lungs, reducing the risk of bacteria growth and infection.
Choice E rationale
Refraining from suctioning the patient is not a recommended intervention to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. Suctioning is necessary to remove secretions from the airway, which can help to prevent infection.
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