The nurse assesses a client who has a nasal cannula delivering oxygen at 2 liters/minute. To assess for skin damage related to the cannula, what areas should the nurse observe? Select all that apply.
Over the cheeks.
Around the nostrils.
Across the forehead.
Bridge of the nose.
Tops of the ears.
Correct Answer : A,B,D,E
A. The cheeks can be affected by the nasal cannula, especially if it is not positioned properly or if it causes irritation over time.
B. The area around the nostrils is one of the most common sites for skin damage related to nasal cannulas. Continuous contact with the cannula can cause irritation, redness, or even sores in this area.
C. The nasal cannula itself does not typically make contact with the forehead. Therefore, skin damage across the forehead is not generally a concern related to the use of a nasal cannula.
D. The bridge of the nose is a key area to inspect for skin damage. The nasal cannula’s prongs often rest on or near the bridge of the nose, which can lead to pressure sores, redness, or irritation in this area. Regular assessment is important to prevent and address any damage.
E. The tops of the ears can be affected if the nasal cannula’s tubing or securing mechanism (such as behind-the-ear supports or loops) causes friction or pressure. Skin breakdown can occur in this area if the cannula is not properly adjusted or if it causes irritation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Encouraging the spouse to share their feelings is the most appropriate initial action. It provides an opportunity for the spouse to express their emotions and begin processing their grief. This approach validates the spouse’s feelings, offers emotional support, and establishes a supportive environment where the spouse can feel heard and understood.
B. Offering reassurance that the spouse is not alone can be comforting, but it may not fully address the immediate emotional needs of the spouse. It is important to first allow the spouse to express their feelings and then provide reassurance as part of the ongoing support.
C. Discussing alternative treatment options may be premature and could be perceived as dismissive of the spouse’s immediate emotional response. At this moment, the spouse is focused on the emotional impact of the terminal diagnosis rather than treatment options.
D. While offering hope can be part of supportive care, this approach might unintentionally minimize the spouse’s current feelings of loss and grief. It can also come across as dismissive of the immediate emotional impact of the diagnosis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Positioning the package of gauze pads on a sterile field is an appropriate action to maintain sterility and ensure that all items used in the procedure remain uncontaminated. However, this step should be considered only if the solution was poured correctly and the sterility of the gauze pads and solution has been maintained.
B. Discarding the open bottle of solution is not necessary unless it has been contaminated. If the solution is still sterile and has not been contaminated (e.g., by touching non-sterile surfaces), there is no need to discard it. The focus should be on ensuring that the solution and all other items remain sterile.
C. Recapping the solution is not recommended because it can lead to contamination. Instead, the solution should be left open or covered with a sterile cap, if provided. Applying sterile gloves is essential for maintaining sterility during the dressing change procedure, but this should be done after ensuring that all supplies and steps are in order.
D. This action would be necessary only if there was a contamination issue or if the sterility of the supplies or solution was compromised. If the sterile technique was not followed properly or there was a risk of contamination, starting the procedure again with new supplies would be appropriate.
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