The nurse is assisting the client with arm and shoulder exercises on the first post-op day following a right-sided thoracotomy. The client reports pain with the exercise and wants to know why they must be performed. What explanation should the nurse provide? The exercises:
Increase blood flow back to your heart.
Will promote expanding the left lung.
Prevent stiffening and loss of function.
Rebuild the muscle that was removed.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Increasing blood flow back to the heart is not the primary reason for performing arm and shoulder exercises after a thoracotomy. While exercise can improve circulation, the main goal of these specific exercises is to maintain mobility and prevent complications related to immobility.
Choice B reason: Promoting the expansion of the left lung is not the primary purpose of arm and shoulder exercises. While deep breathing exercises and the use of an incentive spirometer are crucial for lung expansion and preventing atelectasis, arm and shoulder exercises focus more on maintaining joint and muscle function.
Choice C reason: Preventing stiffening and loss of function is the primary reason for performing arm and shoulder exercises after a thoracotomy. These exercises help maintain the range of motion in the shoulder and arm, prevent joint stiffness, and reduce the risk of muscle atrophy. Postoperative immobility can lead to significant functional impairments, and these exercises are essential for a smooth recovery.
Choice D reason: Rebuilding the muscle that was removed is not accurate in this context. Thoracotomy involves accessing the thoracic cavity, and while muscle tissue may be affected, the primary goal of postoperative exercises is to maintain existing muscle function and prevent stiffness, not to rebuild muscle tissue.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Administering oxygen per the prescriber’s order to keep SpO2 greater than 96% is not typically recommended for clients with chronic bronchitis. High levels of oxygen can suppress the respiratory drive in clients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis. The target SpO2 for these clients is usually between 88% and 92%.
Choice B reason:
Placing the patient in the Sims position is not the most effective position for airway clearance. The Fowler’s or semi-Fowler’s position is generally preferred as it promotes better lung expansion and facilitates easier breathing.
Choice C reason:
Assessing the client’s use of a peak expiratory flow rate meter is important for monitoring the severity of bronchospasm and airflow obstruction. However, it is not a direct intervention for improving gas exchange.
Choice D reason:
Assisting with coughing and deep breathing at least every 2 hours while awake is an effective intervention for clients with chronic bronchitis. This helps to mobilize secretions, improve ventilation, and enhance gas exchange. Regular coughing and deep breathing exercises can prevent atelectasis and reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Clients on tuberculosis (TB) medications, particularly those on isoniazid, rifampin, and pyrazinamide, are at risk for hepatotoxicity. Therefore, regular monitoring of liver function tests (LFTs) is crucial to detect any liver damage early and adjust treatment as necessary.
Choice A reason:
Liver function studies are essential for clients on TB medications. Drugs like isoniazid, rifampin, and pyrazinamide can cause liver toxicity. Monitoring liver enzymes such as ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) helps in early detection of hepatotoxicity, allowing for timely intervention to prevent severe liver damage. Regular LFTs ensure that any adverse effects on the liver are identified and managed promptly.
Choice B reason:
White blood cells (WBCs) are not typically monitored monthly for clients on TB medications. While WBC counts can be affected by various conditions and treatments, they are not specifically indicative of the side effects of TB medications. Monitoring WBCs might be necessary if there are signs of infection or other hematologic issues, but it is not a standard monthly requirement for TB treatment.
Choice C reason:
Coagulation studies are not routinely required for clients on TB medications. These tests are more relevant for patients on anticoagulant therapy or those with bleeding disorders. TB medications do not typically affect coagulation parameters, so regular monitoring of coagulation studies is not necessary unless there is a specific clinical indication.
Choice D reason:
Red blood cells (RBCs) are also not typically monitored monthly for clients on TB medications. While anemia can occur in TB patients, it is not a direct side effect of the medications used to treat TB. Monitoring RBCs might be necessary if there are symptoms of anemia or other hematologic concerns, but it is not a standard part of monthly TB treatment monitoring.
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