The nurse is caring for a client after a thoracentesis that drained 50 mL of clear fluid from the left lung. Which assessment finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider immediately?
Dullness bilaterally on percussion.
Serosanguinous drainage from the chest tube.
Diminished breath sounds in the left lower lobe.
Mediastinal shift to the right.
The Correct Answer is D
A) Incorrect- Dullness bilaterally on percussion is not a normal finding, but it is not an immediate concern after thoracentesis. It may indicate fluid accumulation or consolidation in both lungs, which could be related to other conditions such as pneumonia or heart failure.
B) Incorrect- Serosanguinous drainage from the chest tube is expected after thoracentesis, as long as it is not excessive or continuous. The nurse should monitor the amount and color of the drainage and document it accordingly.
C) Incorrect- Diminished breath sounds in the left lower lobe are also expected after thoracentesis, as the procedure removes fluid and air from the pleural space and reduces lung expansion. The nurse should auscultate the lungs before and after the procedure and compare the findings. The breath sounds should improve gradually as the lung re-expands.
D) Correct- This is a sign of tension pneumothorax, which is a life-threatening complication of thoracentesis. Tension pneumothorax occurs when air accumulates in the pleural space and creates positive pressure that pushes the mediastinum (the heart, great vessels, and trachea) to the opposite side of the chest. This can impair venous return, cardiac output, and respiratory function. The nurse should report this finding to the healthcare provider immediately and prepare to assist with needle decompression or chest tube insertion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["200"]
Explanation
To calculate the mL/hour for the erythromycin infusion, we first need to determine the infusion rate in mL/minute.
The infusion is to be completed over 30 minutes, which is equal to 0.5 hours. Next, we divide the total volume (100 mL) by the total time (0.5 hours) to get the infusion rate in mL/hour:
Infusion rate = Total volume / Total time
Infusion rate = 100 mL / 0.5 hours Infusion rate = 200 mL/hour
Therefore, the nurse should program the infusion pump to deliver the erythromycin infusion at a rate of 200 mL/hour.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
A) Correct - Demonstrating the technique used to monitor blood glucose levels is crucial.
Incorrect technique can lead to inaccurate readings, impacting insulin dosing decisions and blood sugar control.
B) Correct - Some asthma medications, like corticosteroids, can elevate blood glucose levels.
Evaluating the client's asthma medications is essential as they can contribute to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
C) Incorrect- Asking the client if they want a different manufacturer's glucose monitoring device is not helpful, because it does not address the underlying causes of the poor glycemic control. The client may also perceive this as a lack of confidence in their ability to manage their diabetes or as a criticism of their choice of device. The nurse should focus on educating the client on how to use their current device correctly and consistently, rather than suggesting a change that may not be necessary or feasible.
D) Correct - Understanding the client's daily routine helps identify factors influencing blood glucose control, such as meal timing, activity level, and stress. This information aids in creating a personalized diabetes management plan.
E) Correct - Ensuring the client uses a new insulin needle for each administration is important for preventing infection and complications. Reusing needles can affect injection site health and insulin absorption.
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