A nurse is caring for a patient who has been prescribed a stool guaiac test.

The patient inquires about the purpose of the test.

How should the nurse respond?

Choice A rationale:

The statement “The pulse oximeter may not be accurate during periods of excessive movement” is correct. Pulse oximeters measure the amount of oxygen in the blood by shining light through the skin, and movement can cause the light to scatter, leading to inaccurate readings.

Choice B rationale:

The statement “We will inform the doctor if the pulse oximeter consistently reads 100%” indicates further instruction is needed. A pulse oximeter reading of 100% is not necessarily a cause for concern. It simply means that the hemoglobin is fully saturated with oxygen. However, if the oxygen level is consistently at 100%, it could indicate that the oxygen flow is too high and needs to be adjusted. It’s important to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the desired oxygen saturation level for the infant.

Choice C rationale:

The statement “The probe of the pulse oximeter can be attached to a finger or a toe” is correct. The probe of a pulse oximeter can indeed be attached to a finger, toe, or even an earlobe. The important thing is that it’s attached to a part of the body with good blood flow. Choice D rationale:

The statement “We will move the probe of the pulse oximeter every 24 hours” is correct. It’s important to move the probe periodically to prevent skin damage, such as pressure sores or burns, especially in infants who have delicate skin.

Choice A rationale:

Prone The prone position, in which a patient lies facedown, is beneficial for patients with pneumonia as it helps shift the fluid away from the back of the lungs, allowing more air to enter. It also improves ventilation in the lungs and reduces the risk of lung collapse. However, this position is not the most effective for maximum lung expansion in pneumonia patients.

Choice B rationale:

Side-lying Lateral positioning, in which the patient lies on one side, is recommended for patients suffering from pneumonia in just one lung. In this position, the pneumatic lung is exposed to a higher blood flow, resulting in greater oxygenation levels and improved lung expansion. This position can also help prevent lung injury by helping regulate pressure and improve aeration.

But again, this is not the most effective position for maximum lung expansion in pneumonia patients.

Choice C rationale:

Supine The supine position, where the patient lies flat on their back, is not the best position for a pneumonia patient. This position can cause the secretions to pool in the lungs, making it harder for the patient to breathe and potentially worsening their condition. Choice D rationale:

Upright Elevating the head of the bed is an effective way to improve lung expansion and oxygenation levels in pneumonia patients. This position also helps eliminate airway obstruction, reduces pressure on the lungs, and promotes drainage of fluids from the lungs. Therefore, the upright position is the most recommended for maximum lung expansion in pneumonia patients.