A nurse is caring for a patient who is using a partial rebreather mask for oxygen therapy. The patient reports feeling short of breath. What is the nurse's priority action?
Increase the flow rate of oxygen to improve oxygenation.
Assess the mask bag to ensure it remains inflated during inspiration and expiration.
Switch the patient to a non-rebreather mask for higher oxygen delivery.
Reassure the patient that shortness of breath is common with this type of mask.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Increasing the flow rate of oxygen may not be the priority action because the patient's shortness of breath could be due to a problem with the mask itself, rather than the amount of oxygen being delivered. Before making any adjustments to the oxygen flow rate, it is essential to assess the equipment's integrity.
Choice B rationale:
This is the priority action because a partial rebreather mask relies on the patient's exhaled breath to partially fill the reservoir bag. If the mask bag does not remain inflated during both inspiration and expiration, the patient may not be receiving the appropriate oxygen concentration, leading to increased shortness of breath. Checking the mask bag ensures that the mask is functioning correctly and delivering the intended oxygen concentration.
Choice C rationale:
Switching the patient to a non-rebreather mask for higher oxygen delivery is not the priority action in this scenario. The non-rebreather mask is used when high oxygen concentrations are required, such as in emergencies or when a patient's condition requires immediate intervention. However, the priority at this moment is to assess the current equipment's effectiveness before considering a change in oxygen delivery method.
Choice D rationale:
Reassuring the patient that shortness of breath is common with this type of mask is not appropriate without first addressing the issue at hand. The nurse should first assess the mask's functionality to ensure it is working correctly and providing the appropriate oxygen concentration before addressing the patient's concerns.
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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Switching to a simple face mask is not the appropriate intervention for nasal dryness and irritation. A simple face mask covers the nose and mouth, and it may not provide enough relief for nasal dryness as the oxygen flow is still directed towards the nose.
Choice B rationale:
Increasing the flow rate of oxygen will not directly improve humidity. Nasal dryness and irritation are often caused by the lack of moisture in the delivered oxygen. Increasing the flow rate may worsen the issue.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing the patient's nares for patency and skin integrity is the appropriate intervention. Nasal dryness and irritation can be caused by inadequate humidification of the oxygen. Checking the patency of the nares and the condition of the skin can help identify any issues that may be contributing to the discomfort.
Choice D rationale:
Reassuring the patient that nasal dryness is a normal side effect is not sufficient. While nasal dryness can be a common side effect of using a nasal cannula, it is essential to address the issue and provide appropriate interventions to alleviate the discomfort and prevent complications.
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.