What information does the nurse teach the patient regarding NPO status before a surgical procedure?
Nothing solid by mouth for 8 to 10 hours before surgery
Nothing solid by mouth for 10 to 12 hours before surgery
Nothing solid by mouth for 12 to 14 hours before surgery
Nothing solid by mouth for 6 to 8 hours before surgery
The Correct Answer is D
A. Nothing solid by mouth for 8 to 10 hours before surgery: While some surgeries may require longer fasting, the general guideline is at least 6-8 hours for solids.
B. Nothing solid by mouth for 10 to 12 hours before surgery: This is longer than necessary based on standard preoperative fasting guidelines.
C. Nothing solid by mouth for 12 to 14 hours before surgery: This is excessive and may lead to unnecessary discomfort.
D. Nothing solid by mouth for 6 to 8 hours before surgery: General guidelines recommend NPO for at least 6-8 hours before surgery to reduce the risk of aspiration during anesthesia. Clear liquids may be allowed up to 2 hours before surgery.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Chest physiotherapy (CPT) every 4 hours while awake. CPT is used to mobilize secretions but may be too aggressive for a patient with infiltrates and respiratory distress, as it can increase fatigue and worsen respiratory status.
B. Oxygen therapy via nasal cannula at 3 to 4 L/min. Low-flow oxygen therapy is often used in COPD to prevent hypoxemia while avoiding CO₂ retention.
C. Add humidification to the oxygen source. Humidified oxygen helps prevent airway dryness and improves secretion clearance, which is beneficial for COPD patients.
D. Raise the head of the patient's bed. Elevating the head of the bed promotes lung expansion and improves oxygenation, making this an appropriate intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Ensure an NPO status is maintained for the length of the prescribed treatment: While some ventilated patients are NPO, others receive enteral feeding. NPO status alone does not prevent aspiration.
B. Perform chest physiotherapy as prescribed by the practitioner: Chest physiotherapy helps clear secretions but does not directly reduce aspiration risk.
C. Limit each suctioning event to no more than 10 seconds: While limiting suction time is important to avoid hypoxia, it does not directly prevent aspiration.
D. Elevate the head of the bed between 30 to 45 degrees: Keeping the head of the bed elevated reduces the risk of aspiration, partic
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