A nurse is caring for a patient with a tracheostomy. The patient suddenly develops bright red bleeding from the tracheostomy stoma, pulsation of the tracheostomy tube in synchrony with the heartbeat, hypotension, and tachycardia. What should the nurse do first?
Notify the health care provider immediately.
Apply direct pressure to stop bleeding.
Administer fluids and blood products as ordered.
Ensure proper positioning and alignment of the tracheostomy tube.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
While notifying the healthcare provider is essential, the priority action in this situation is to stop the bleeding to prevent further complications.
Choice B rationale:
Applying direct pressure to the tracheostomy stoma is the first action the nurse should take to control the bleeding and stabilize the patient.
Choice C rationale:
Administering fluids and blood products may be necessary later, but it is not the first action to take when dealing with active bleeding.
Choice D rationale:
Ensuring proper positioning and alignment of the tracheostomy tube is important, but it is not the priority in this critical situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This response is dismissive of the patient's feelings and may increase their anxiety. It does not address the patient's concern appropriately.
Choice B rationale:
This response acknowledges the patient's anxiety and provides a clear explanation for the necessity of the procedure. It is empathetic and supportive while also emphasizing the importance of the intervention.
Choice C rationale:
This response is not entirely reassuring and may not be accurate. Simply asking the patient to trust the nurse without explaining the procedure further may not alleviate the patient's anxiety.
Choice D rationale:
Skipping the procedure without a valid reason may compromise the patient's airway and respiratory function. Postponing essential procedures is not appropriate unless there are specific clinical reasons for doing so.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This choice is not the most relevant information for the patient with a tracheostomy regarding communication methods. Effective oral communication with the tube in place may be challenging, and other options should be explored.
Choice B rationale:
While electronic devices can be helpful for communication, they may not be the most practical option for a patient with a tracheostomy, especially during emergencies when devices may not be readily available.
Choice C rationale:
This choice is somewhat relevant but not the most appropriate. While written communication is an option, it may not be the primary method used with a tracheostomy.
Choice D rationale:
This is the correct choice. Teaching the patient how to use speaking valves to facilitate speech with the tracheostomy tube in place can significantly improve communication. Speaking valves allow airflow during inhalation and redirect exhaled air through the vocal cords, enabling speech while maintaining a closed respiratory system during exhalation. This is a valuable communication method for patients with tracheostomies.
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