A client recovering from a pneumonectomy is placed in a semi-Fowler's position. What is the primary reason for this positioning?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: To promote lung expansion. Placing the client in a semi-Fowler's position helps improve ventilation by allowing the lungs to expand more fully, aiding in gas exchange. This position also optimizes diaphragmatic function. A is incorrect because preventing atelectasis is more related to deep breathing exercises. B is incorrect as reducing pressure on the suture line is not the primary purpose of semi-Fowler's position. D is incorrect as preventing aspiration of secretions is not directly related to the positioning of a client recovering from a pneumonectomy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Monitoring aPTT is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of heparin therapy because heparin primarily affects the intrinsic pathway of the coagulation cascade, which is reflected in the aPTT value. By monitoring aPTT levels, the nurse can ensure that the heparin dosage is within the therapeutic range to prevent clot formation without causing excessive bleeding. Platelet count (A) is important to monitor for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia but does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of heparin therapy. Prothrombin time (PT) (B) and International normalized ratio (INR) (D) are used to monitor warfarin therapy, which acts on the extrinsic pathway of the coagulation cascade, not heparin therapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To remove mucus from the airways. Postural drainage helps mobilize and clear mucus from the bronchiectatic airways, improving ventilation and reducing the risk of infection. This is crucial in bronchiectasis to prevent mucus buildup, which can lead to further lung damage and infections. Incorrect choices: A: To improve oxygen saturation - While postural drainage can indirectly improve oxygenation by clearing mucus, the primary goal is mucus clearance. C: To reduce inflammation in the lungs - Postural drainage primarily focuses on mucus clearance rather than reducing inflammation. D: To prevent respiratory infections - While mucus clearance can help prevent infections, the primary goal of postural drainage is to remove mucus.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To prevent asthma exacerbations. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that works to reduce inflammation in the airways, preventing asthma symptoms and exacerbations. It is not used for acute bronchospasm relief (choice A) or immediate relief during an attack (choice D). Montelukast does not directly reduce mucus production (choice C) but rather targets the underlying inflammation in asthma.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Losing weight if overweight. Obesity is a major risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea as excess fat around the neck can obstruct the airway during sleep. Losing weight can help reduce the severity of symptoms by decreasing the amount of tissue that may be blocking the airway. Sleeping in a supine position (A) can actually worsen symptoms by further collapsing the airway. Avoiding CPAP therapy (B) is not recommended as it is a common treatment for sleep apnea. Reducing daily fluid intake (D) may help with nighttime trips to the bathroom but does not directly address the underlying cause of obstructive sleep apnea.