A patient arrives in the ED after an automobile accident. Which of the following clinical manifestations leads the nurse to suspect a pneumothorax? (Select all that apply)
(Select All that Apply.)
Pulse oximetry 98%
Diminished breath sounds over painful chest area
Respiratory rate 34
ABG pH level of 7.38
Asymmetrical chest movements, especially on inspiration
Correct Answer : B,C,E
A. Pulse oximetry 98%: A pulse oximetry reading of 98% indicates adequate oxygen saturation, which does not strongly suggest a pneumothorax. Patients with a pneumothorax may have lower oxygen saturation levels, but this reading alone is not indicative of the condition.
B. Diminished breath sounds over painful chest area: Diminished breath sounds are a significant clinical manifestation of pneumothorax, as air in the pleural space prevents normal lung expansion and decreases airflow to the affected side.
C. Respiratory rate 34: An elevated respiratory rate (tachypnea) is often observed in patients with pneumothorax as they may struggle to breathe effectively. This clinical manifestation indicates respiratory distress and is consistent with the condition.
D. ABG pH level of 7.38: A pH level of 7.38 indicates acidosis, which may occur in cases of pneumothorax due to impaired gas exchange and respiratory distress. This abnormal finding on arterial blood gases supports the suspicion of pneumothorax.
E. Asymmetrical chest movements, especially on inspiration: Asymmetrical chest movements are a classic sign of pneumothorax, where the affected lung does not expand as fully as the unaffected lung during inspiration, leading to visible differences in chest wall movement.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Fungus: While fungal infections can cause infective endocarditis, they are much less common compared to bacterial infections. Fungal endocarditis typically occurs in immunocompromised individuals or those with specific risk factors.
B. Virus: Viral infections can affect the heart, but they are not a common cause of infective endocarditis. Most cases of endocarditis are associated with bacterial infections rather than viral ones.
C. Bacterium: The most common cause of infective endocarditis is bacterial infection. Bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus viridans, and Enterococcus, are frequently implicated in this condition. These bacteria can enter the bloodstream and adhere to heart valves or damaged cardiac tissue, leading to infection and inflammation.
D. Rickettsiae: Rickettsial infections are caused by a specific type of bacteria that are typically transmitted through arthropod vectors, such as ticks. While they can cause various illnesses, they are not a common cause of infective endocarditis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Triglycerides: Elevated triglyceride levels are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. High triglycerides can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to a higher risk of heart disease and complications such as heart attacks or strokes.
B. Very low density lipoproteins (VLDLs): Elevated VLDL levels are considered harmful and are linked to a higher risk of atherosclerosis. VLDLs contribute to the accumulation of triglycerides and promote the development of plaque in the arteries, which can significantly increase cardiovascular risk over time.
C. High density lipoproteins (HDLs): Elevated HDL levels are considered protective against the development of atherosclerosis. HDLs help transport cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver for excretion, which not only reduces the risk of plaque buildup but also lowers the likelihood of heart disease and enhances overall cardiovascular health.
D. Low density lipoproteins (LDLs): Elevated LDL levels are known to be a major risk factor for atherosclerosis. LDL cholesterol can contribute to the formation of plaques in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke, and it is important to manage LDL levels for better cardiovascular health.
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