While caring for a client who was injured in a motor-vehicle crash and reports dyspnea and severe pain, a nurse in the emergency department notes that the client's chest moves inward during inspiration and bulges out during expiration. The nurse should identify this finding as which of the following?

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Question 1 of 9

While caring for a client who was injured in a motor-vehicle crash and reports dyspnea and severe pain, a nurse in the emergency department notes that the client's chest moves inward during inspiration and bulges out during expiration. The nurse should identify this finding as which of the following?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Flail chest. Flail chest occurs when a segment of the rib cage is detached from the rest of the chest wall, causing paradoxical chest movement. In this case, the inward movement during inspiration and outward bulging during expiration are classic signs of flail chest, as the detached segment moves in the opposite direction of the rest of the chest wall. Atelectasis (choice A) refers to collapsed lung tissue, not paradoxical chest movement. Hemothorax (choice C) is the accumulation of blood in the pleural space, which does not cause paradoxical chest movement. Pneumothorax (choice D) is the presence of air in the pleural space, which can cause chest pain and dyspnea but does not result in paradoxical chest movement.

Question 2 of 9

Sam is diagnosed with having a myocardial infarction after experiencing chest pain and pain radiating to his arms, jaw, and back. He asks what a myocardial infarction is. You respond by saying

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A myocardial infarction occurs when blood flow to the heart is obstructed.

Question 3 of 9

How would the nurse describe the techniques used in energy medicine?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Energy medicine encompasses techniques like Reiki and acupuncture, targeting energy fields for healing purposes.

Question 4 of 9

Which of these tasks are appropriate to delegate to the LPN/LVN who is functioning under the supervision of an RN? (Choose all that apply.)

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Administering medications is within the scope of practice for LPNs/LVNs under RN supervision.

Question 5 of 9

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis typically have pain

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: RA pain worsens with activity due to joint inflammation.

Question 6 of 9

Which group of learners were born between 1961 and 1981 and have different learning needs due to technology and imposed independence?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Generation X learners value independence and practical application due to technological advancements during their formative years.

Question 7 of 9

Before administering oxygen to a patient, what should the nurse initially do?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Assessing respiratory effort helps tailor oxygen therapy appropriately.

Question 8 of 9

What action should the nurse include in teaching Mr. Ross about skin care of the irradiated area?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Protecting the skin from irritation and moisture promotes healing.

Question 9 of 9

A client has burns to his face, ears, and eyelids. What is the priority finding for the nurse to report to the provider?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Difficulty swallowing. This is the priority finding to report because burns to the face, ears, and eyelids can lead to swelling, which can compromise the airway and cause difficulty swallowing or breathing. This finding indicates a potential airway obstruction, which requires immediate intervention to ensure the client's airway remains patent. Incorrect choices: A: Urinary output of 25 mL/hr - While monitoring urinary output is important, it is not the priority in this situation. C: Heart rate of 122/min - An elevated heart rate can be a response to pain and stress, but it is not the priority over airway concerns. D: Pain level of 6 on a scale of 0 to 10 - Pain management is important but not as critical as ensuring airway patency in this scenario.

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