A nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving oxygen therapy via nasal cannula. The nurse notices that the patient's nares are dry and irritated. What should the nurse do first?
Apply petroleum jelly to the nares.
Increase the flow rate of oxygen.
Change the nasal cannula to a face mask.
Connect the device to a humidifier.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice D rationale:
The nurse should connect the nasal cannula to a humidifier first. Dry and irritated nares are common side effects of oxygen therapy via nasal cannula, and using a humidifier adds moisture to the oxygen, reducing irritation and discomfort for the patient.
Choice A rationale:
Applying petroleum jelly to the nares is not the first action to take. It might provide temporary relief, but it is essential to address the root cause of dryness, which is the lack of moisture in the oxygen delivered.
Choice B rationale:
Increasing the flow rate of oxygen is not the first step because it may not address the dryness issue. It can lead to a higher concentration of oxygen, but it won't solve the problem of dry and irritated nares.
Choice C rationale:
Changing the nasal cannula to a face mask is not necessary to address the dryness. Face masks may not be well-tolerated by some patients, and it's better to try less invasive interventions first.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Venturi masks are not typically used with tracheostomy patients, as they are more suitable for patients with intact upper airways.
Choice B rationale:
Tracheostomy collars are specifically designed for patients with tracheostomies. They provide oxygen directly to the tracheostomy tube, making them appropriate for weaning tracheostomized patients from mechanical ventilation.
Choice C rationale:
T-piece adapters are commonly used for patients with tracheostomies to deliver oxygen. They are simple devices that deliver oxygen directly to the tracheostomy tube.
Choice D rationale:
Aerosol masks are not specifically designed for tracheostomy patients and may not provide adequate oxygen delivery for them.
Choice E rationale:
Mechanical ventilators are not an oxygen delivery device; instead, they are used to provide mechanical ventilation support to the patient and can incorporate various oxygen delivery systems.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A humidifier.
Choice A rationale:
A humidifier is necessary to prevent complications in a patient receiving oxygen therapy via a tracheostomy collar. Oxygen delivered through a tracheostomy can dry out the airways and cause discomfort and potential complications. Adding humidity helps maintain airway moisture and prevents drying of the mucous membranes, reducing the risk of mucus plugs and irritation.
Choice B rationale:
A water seal is not necessary for a patient receiving oxygen therapy via a tracheostomy collar. Water seals are used in chest drainage systems to prevent air from entering the pleural space, but they are not relevant in this scenario.
Choice C rationale:
A suction catheter is used to clear secretions from the airway but is not directly related to preventing complications with oxygen therapy via a tracheostomy collar.
Choice D rationale:
A chest tube is not needed for a patient receiving oxygen therapy via a tracheostomy collar. Chest tubes are inserted to drain fluid or air from the pleural space, which is not applicable to this situation.
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