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 C
Explanation
A. Right Circumstances:
This involves ensuring that the tasks being delegated are appropriate for the circumstances and consistent with the plan of care. The nurse should consider factors such as the client's condition, the complexity of the task, and the stability of the client's health status.
B. Right Communication:
Effective communication is crucial in delegation. This includes clear and concise instructions, expectations, and a feedback loop. The nurse should ensure that communication is understood and acknowledged by both parties involved in the delegation.
C. Right Supervision:
Right Supervision involves providing guidance, direction, and feedback to those to whom tasks have been delegated. The nurse is responsible for overseeing and ensuring that the tasks are performed appropriately, meeting the required standards of care. This includes ongoing monitoring and assessment of delegated tasks.
D. Right Person:
The right person involves selecting the appropriate individual for the task based on their competence, knowledge, and skills. The nurse must assess the competency of the person being delegated to and ensure that they have the necessary qualifications to perform the assigned task
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Metabolic alkalosis with full compensation:
This is not the correct interpretation. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated pH and elevated bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels. In this case, the pH is low (acidosis), and the bicarbonate level is within the normal range, suggesting a respiratory issue rather than a metabolic one.
B. Respiratory alkalosis with partial compensation:
This is not the correct interpretation. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by an elevated pH and decreased PaCO2. In this case, the pH is low (acidosis), and the PaCO2 is elevated, indicating respiratory acidosis rather than alkalosis.
C. Metabolic acidosis with partial compensation:
This is not the correct interpretation. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and decreased bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels. In this case, the bicarbonate level is within the normal range, and the elevated PaCO2 suggests a respiratory issue, not metabolic acidosis.
D. Respiratory acidosis with no compensation:
This is the correct interpretation. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH and an elevated PaCO2. The normal bicarbonate level indicates that compensatory mechanisms (such as the kidneys increasing bicarbonate reabsorption) have not fully corrected the pH imbalance, leading to respiratory acidosis with no compensation.
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