A patient with respiratory failure has a respiratory rate of 26 breaths/min and an oxygen saturation (SpO2) of 80%. The patient is increasingly pale and restless but follows commands. Which intervention will the nurse anticipate?
Initiation of continuous positive pressure ventilation (CPAP)
Endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation
Insertion of a mini-tracheostomy with frequent suctioning
Administration of 100% O2 by non-rebreather mask
The Correct Answer is B
B. Endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are indicated in patients with respiratory failure who are unable to maintain adequate oxygenation or ventilation with non-invasive interventions. Intubation allows for the delivery of positive pressure ventilation, oxygenation, and airway protection. It also facilitates the clearance of secretions and administration of medications. Given the patient's severe hypoxemia, impending respiratory distress, and deteriorating condition, endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are the most appropriate interventions to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent further deterioration.
A. CPAP is a non-invasive ventilation modality that provides a continuous positive pressure to the airways throughout the respiratory cycle. While CPAP may be beneficial in certain cases of respiratory failure, it may not be sufficient for a patient with severe hypoxemia (SpO2 of 80%) and impending respiratory distress. CPAP is typically indicated for patients with conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea or mild to moderate respiratory failure.
C. Mini-tracheostomy may be considered in certain cases of upper airway obstruction or inadequate airway clearance. However, in this scenario, the patient's hypoxemia is likely due to severe respiratory failure rather than upper airway obstruction. While suctioning may be necessary to clear secretions, it does not address the underlying cause of hypoxemia or provide ventilatory support.
D. While administration of supplemental oxygen is important in the management of hypoxemia, a non- rebreather mask may not be sufficient for a patient with severe hypoxemia and impending respiratory distress. Non-rebreather masks can deliver high concentrations of oxygen but may not provide adequate positive pressure support or airway protection. In this case, endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are more appropriate to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are indicated in patients with severe respiratory failure who are unable to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation on their own. This intervention provides mechanical support to the patient's breathing by delivering positive pressure to the lungs via an endotracheal tube. Given the patient's respiratory rate of 6 breaths/min, low oxygen saturation (SpO2 of 78%), and increasing lethargy, endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are the most appropriate interventions to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
A. CPAP is a form of non-invasive positive pressure ventilation that helps keep the airways open and improves oxygenation. However, in a patient with severe respiratory failure and impending respiratory arrest, CPAP alone may not be sufficient to adequately support ventilation and oxygenation. CPAP is typically used in patients with milder forms of respiratory failure or as a step-down therapy from invasive mechanical ventilation.
C. Insertion of a mini-tracheostomy is not typically indicated in a patient with severe respiratory failure and impending respiratory arrest. While tracheostomy may be considered in certain cases for long-term ventilation or airway management, it is not the first-line intervention in an acute situation like this.
Additionally, frequent suctioning may not address the underlying cause of respiratory failure or improve oxygenation.
D. Administering 100% oxygen via a non-rebreather mask can help improve oxygenation temporarily. However, in a patient with severe respiratory failure and impending respiratory arrest, non-invasive oxygen therapy alone may not be sufficient to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
Endotracheal intubation and positive pressure ventilation are more definitive interventions to ensure adequate support for the patient's breathing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Myocardial infarction (heart attack) is a common cause of cardiogenic shock. In myocardial infarction, part of the heart muscle becomes ischemic or necrotic due to occlusion of a coronary artery. This leads to impaired cardiac function and reduced cardiac output, resulting in cardiogenic shock. Prompt recognition and treatment of myocardial infarction are crucial to prevent or manage cardiogenic shock.
A. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can lead to systemic vasodilation and distributive shock, but it is not a common cause of cardiogenic shock. In anaphylaxis, the primary mechanism of shock is typically related to widespread vasodilation and increased vascular permeability rather than impaired cardiac function.
B. Hypovolemic shock occurs due to a decrease in intravascular volume, leading to inadequate tissue perfusion. It is not a common cause of cardiogenic shock, as the underlying mechanism is different. In hypovolemic shock, the primary issue is the loss of circulating blood volume, whereas cardiogenic shock involves impaired cardiac function.
C. Pulmonary embolism can lead to acute right heart strain or failure, which may result in hemodynamic instability and shock. However, pulmonary embolism typically causes obstructive shock rather than cardiogenic shock. Obstructive shock occurs when blood flow is obstructed, such as by a pulmonary embolism, leading to reduced cardiac output.
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