A student is caring for a patient with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) at 5 cm H20. The student asks “What is the purpose of PEEP?” which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?
PEEP deceases the peak respiratory pressures
“PEEP increases the number of breaths the patient takes on his own.”
“PEEP augments the patient’s overall tidal volumes.”
“PEEP improves oxygenation by keeping alveoli open after exhalation.”
The Correct Answer is D
A. PEEP decreases the peak respiratory pressures:
PEEP may increase peak respiratory pressures, especially during inspiration, but its primary purpose is to prevent alveolar collapse and improve oxygenation.
B. “PEEP increases the number of breaths the patient takes on his own.”:
PEEP does not increase the number of breaths the patient takes. It primarily affects the quality of ventilation by preventing alveolar collapse.
C. “PEEP augments the patient’s overall tidal volumes.”:
PEEP does not necessarily increase overall tidal volumes. It focuses on maintaining positive pressure at the end of expiration to prevent alveolar collapse.
D. “PEEP improves oxygenation by keeping alveoli open after exhalation.”
Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is used in mechanical ventilation to maintain positive pressure in the airways and alveoli at the end of the respiratory cycle (expiration). This helps prevent alveolar collapse and improves oxygenation by keeping the alveoli open, particularly in patients with conditions like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). PEEP is commonly used to increase functional residual capacity (FRC) and improve oxygenation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Fluctuation of the fluid level within the water seal chamber
Fluctuation of the fluid level within the water seal chamber indicates that the chest tube is functioning properly. This fluctuation is a normal finding and reflects the movement of air in and out of the pleural space during the respiratory cycle. As the patient inhales, the fluid level drops, and as they exhale, it rises.
B. Equal amounts of fluid drainage in each collection chamber:
Equal amounts of drainage may suggest a problem with the drainage system or that the chest tube is not effectively draining air or fluid from the pleural space.
C. Continuous bubbling within the water seal chamber:
Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber may indicate an air leak, which is not a normal finding. It should be investigated further.
D. Absence of fluid in the drainage tubing:
The absence of fluid in the drainage tubing may suggest that the chest tube is not effectively draining fluid from the pleural space or that there is a blockage in the system. It requires assessment and intervention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest
In emphysema, there is often hyperinflation of the lungs and destruction of the alveolar walls, leading to loss of lung elasticity. This results in increased air trapping and a characteristic "barrel chest" appearance, with an increased anteroposterior diameter.
B. Petechiae on chest:
Petechiae are small, red or purple spots caused by bleeding into the skin. They are not commonly associated with COPD and emphysema.
C. Oxygen saturation level 96%:
Oxygen saturation level of 96% is within the normal range. While oxygen saturation can be affected in COPD, the value provided is not indicative of severe hypoxemia.
D. Respiratory alkalosis:
Respiratory alkalosis is not typically associated with COPD and emphysema. In fact, respiratory acidosis is more commonly seen in these conditions due to impaired gas exchange and retention of carbon dioxide.
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