A patient is admitted to the emergency department with left-sided chest trauma. Which statement best identifies why the formation of a tension pneumothorax can result in a life-threatening condition for this patient?
The uninjured lung will hyperinflate because of an increased respiratory rate.
Affected lung collapses as more air is exhaled through the traumatic injury.
Trapped air causes collapse of the lung and can reduce the cardiac output.
More CO2 is retained because weakened alveoli blebs rupture.
The Correct Answer is C
A. While an increased respiratory rate may occur, it does not directly lead to hyperinflation of the uninjured lung due to tension pneumothorax.
B. In a tension pneumothorax, air enters the pleural space and does not exhale effectively; it is not about exhalation.
C. Trapped air in the pleural cavity increases pressure, collapsing the lung and pushing mediastinal structures (like the heart) to the opposite side, thereby reducing venous return and cardiac output.
D. Retained CO2 is not a direct cause of tension pneumothorax; the main issue is the pressure from trapped air affecting lung function and hemodynamics.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Endometriosis involves the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, causing inflammation, scarring, and adhesions that may obstruct reproductive pathways, leading to infertility.
B. Endometriosis typically does not cause urethral strictures; adhesions affect the reproductive tract, not the urinary system.
C. While retrograde menstruation is a theory for endometriosis development, it does not directly lead to a neoplastic (cancerous) condition of the ovaries.
D. Endometriosis is not caused by an untreated bacterial infection; rather, it is a condition of abnormal endometrial tissue growth.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Medications in unstable angina aim to prevent platelet aggregation and thrombus formation, not increase platelet adhesion.
B. Increasing preload would increase cardiac workload, which is counterproductive in managing unstable angina, as the goal is to reduce workload on the heart.
C. Constricting coronary arteries would worsen ischemia and exacerbate unstable angina, not help it.
D. Decreasing afterload (the resistance the heart must pump against) reduces the workload on the heart, helping to improve cardiac output and alleviate ischemia in unstable angina.
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.