Which action would the nurse take while providing home care to a patient with a stoma after a tracheostomy? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct.

Choice A reason: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive lung disease characterized by scarring of the lung tissue. Tissue plasminogen activators (tPAs) are not used for this condition, as they are primarily designed to dissolve blood clots, not to address fibrotic changes in the lungs.

Choice B reason: Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that affects multiple organs, particularly the lungs and lymph glands. It involves the growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells called granulomas. Tissue plasminogen activators are not used in the treatment of sarcoidosis since the condition is not related to blood clots but rather to immune system dysregulation.

Choice C reason: Atelectasis is the complete or partial collapse of a lung or lobe of a lung due to alveoli deflation. The treatment typically focuses on re-expanding the lung tissue through techniques such as deep breathing exercises, bronchoscopy, or mechanical ventilation. Tissue plasminogen activators are not relevant for this condition, as they are used to dissolve blood clots, not to treat lung collapse.

Choice D reason: Pulmonary embolus (PE) is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, usually caused by blood clots that travel to the lungs from the legs or other parts of the body (deep vein thrombosis). Tissue plasminogen activators are used to treat PE because they can effectively dissolve the blood clots obstructing the pulmonary arteries, thereby restoring normal blood flow and preventing further complications.

Choice A reason: An oxygen mask is essential for providing supplemental oxygen to the patient, especially if they experience respiratory distress or decreased oxygen saturation following a seizure. Ensuring adequate oxygenation is a priority in post-seizure care.

Choice B reason: A nasogastric tube may be used in specific situations for feeding or medication administration, but it is not routinely necessary for all patients treated for status epilepticus.

Choice C reason: A urinary catheter is used for managing urinary output, particularly in patients with retention or incontinence issues, but it is not immediately required for all patients post-status epilepticus.

Choice D reason: Suction set-up is necessary for maintaining the patient's airway and preventing aspiration, particularly if the patient has excessive secretions or vomits after a seizure. Suction equipment allows the nurse to quickly clear the airway and ensure the patient can breathe effectively.

Choice E reason: Tongue blades are not recommended for seizure management as they can cause injury. Historically, there was a misconception about using tongue blades to prevent tongue biting during seizures, but this practice is now discouraged due to the risk of oral injury.

Choice F reason: Side rail pads are important for protecting the patient from injury during potential future seizures. Padded side rails help prevent trauma from hitting the bed rails during convulsions and provide a safer environment for the patient.