A nurse is caring for a patient who is 9 days postoperative following a total laryngectomy. The nurse removes the patient’s NG tube and initiates oral feedings.
Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
“You should have no trouble swallowing fluids.”.
“It is no longer possible for you to choke on or aspirate food.”.
“I will add a thickener to your liquids to prevent aspiration.”.
“Tuck your chin when you swallow so you won’t choke.”.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
After a total laryngectomy, patients may have difficulty swallowing fluids due to changes in the anatomy of the throat.
Choice B rationale
It is not accurate to say that it is no longer possible for the patient to choke on or aspirate food after a total laryngectomy. While the risk of aspiration is reduced because the airway and digestive tract are separated, the patient can still experience choking on food if it is not properly swallowed.
Choice C rationale
Adding a thickener to liquids can help prevent aspiration, but this is typically more relevant for patients with dysphagia or other swallowing disorders, not specifically for patients post- laryngectomy.
Choice D rationale
Tucking the chin when swallowing, also known as the chin-tuck maneuver, can help prevent aspiration by narrowing the entrance to the airway. This can be a useful technique for patients after a laryngectomy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Bumetanide is a diuretic, which means it helps your body get rid of extra water. This can make you urinate more often. Taking the second dose at night could disrupt your sleep.
Choice B rationale
While it’s important to monitor fluid intake when taking a diuretic, there’s no specific requirement to limit fluid intake to 1.5 liters a day. Fluid needs can vary based on individual circumstances.
Choice C rationale
Bumetanide can sometimes cause hearing changes or loss, which is usually reversible once the medication is stopped. Therefore, patients should report any changes in hearing to their healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale
Bumetanide can cause the body to lose potassium, which is an important nutrient for heart function. Therefore, it’s usually recommended to consume foods high in potassium, not avoid them.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Phosphate levels are not directly affected by spironolactone. Spironolactone is a potassium- sparing diuretic and does not typically affect phosphate levels.
Choice B rationale
Decreased potassium level is not typically expected in a patient taking spironolactone. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it can actually lead to increased potassium levels. However, in the context of liver failure and ascites, other factors may influence potassium levels.
Choice C rationale
Chloride levels are not directly affected by spironolactone. Spironolactone primarily affects the balance of potassium and sodium in the body.
Choice D rationale
Sodium levels could potentially be decreased in a patient taking spironolactone, as it can cause the body to lose sodium. However, in the context of liver failure and ascites, sodium levels are often carefully managed.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.