While a nurse is caring for a client who is receiving mechanical ventilation via an endotracheal tube, the high-pressure alarm on the ventilator sounds. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Request insertion of a tracheostomy tube.
Suction the client's airway.
Tighten the tubing connections.
Look for a leak in the tube's cuff.
The Correct Answer is B
Answer: B
Rationale:
A) Request insertion of a tracheostomy tube: The high-pressure alarm on a ventilator typically indicates increased resistance to airflow within the airway, which may be due to secretions, bronchospasm, or another obstruction. Requesting insertion of a tracheostomy tube is not the first action the nurse should take in response to a high-pressure alarm. Instead, the nurse should assess and manage potential causes of increased airway resistance before considering a change in airway management.
B) Suction the client's airway: Suctioning the client's airway is the priority action in response to a high-pressure alarm on the ventilator. Increased airway pressure may be due to secretions or a mucus plug, leading to airway obstruction. Suctioning helps clear the airway and restore effective ventilation.
C) Tighten the tubing connections: While loose tubing connections can contribute to air leaks and decreased ventilation efficiency, they are not the primary cause of a high-pressure alarm. Tightening tubing connections may be necessary but is not the initial action in response to a high-pressure alarm.
D) Look for a leak in the tube's cuff: Checking for a leak in the endotracheal tube cuff is essential to ensure an adequate seal and prevent aspiration. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take in response to a high-pressure alarm. The priority is to address potential airway obstruction by suctioning the client's airway to remove secretions or other obstructions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I will take the medication in the morning." - Metformin extended-release tablets are typically taken with the evening meal to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Taking it in the morning may increase the risk of side effects during the day.
B. "I will avoid crushing this medication." - Metformin extended-release tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or broken, as doing so can disrupt the extended-release mechanism, leading to an increased risk of adverse effects or decreased efficacy.
C. "I will take the medication on an empty stomach." - While metformin can be taken with or without food, it is generally recommended to take it with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Taking it on an empty stomach may increase the risk of nausea or upset stomach.
D. "I will expect to gain weight." - Weight loss is a common side effect of metformin, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Therefore, expecting weight gain would indicate a misunderstanding of the medication's effects.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Wire cutters:
Wire cutters are typically not necessary for postoperative care following a thoracotomy with chest tube placement. They are more commonly used in situations such as removing orthopedic hardware or cutting wires in emergency situations. Therefore, wire cutters are not essential equipment for this particular procedure.
B. Montgomery straps:
Montgomery straps are adhesive strips used to secure dressings or bandages without the need for tape. While they can be useful in some postoperative situations, they are not specifically required for a thoracotomy with chest tube placement.
C. Tracheostomy tray:
A tracheostomy tray contains equipment necessary for performing tracheostomy care, such as sterile gloves, tracheostomy tubes, and suctioning equipment. It is not directly related to thoracotomy or chest tube care post op.
D. Padded clamp:
A padded clamp, or chest tube holder, is a device used to secure chest tubes in place and prevent them from being accidentally dislodged. It is an essential piece of equipment for postoperative care following a thoracotomy with chest tube placement, as it helps maintain the integrity of the chest tubes and prevents complications such as air leaks or pneumothorax.
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