ATI RN
Oxygen Cycle Questions and Answers Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient with chest trauma. Which finding is most concerning?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Paradoxical chest wall movement. This finding is most concerning because it indicates a flail chest, a serious condition where a segment of the chest wall moves in the opposite direction of the rest of the chest during breathing, leading to respiratory compromise and potential lung injury. This requires immediate medical intervention. A: Mild chest wall bruising is less concerning as it may be a common finding in chest trauma without indicating severe underlying issues. C: A respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute falls within the normal range and may not necessarily indicate a critical condition. D: Subcutaneous emphysema near the injury site can be concerning but is typically not as immediately critical as paradoxical chest wall movement in terms of respiratory compromise.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is teaching a patient how to manage allergic rhinitis. What is the most important point to include?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Identify and avoid environmental triggers. This is the most important point because it addresses the root cause of allergic rhinitis, which is exposure to allergens. By identifying and avoiding triggers such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander, the patient can effectively manage their symptoms. Using oral antihistamines preemptively (choice A) may provide some relief, but does not address the underlying cause. Washing hands frequently (choice C) is important for preventing infections but not directly related to managing allergic rhinitis. Limiting corticosteroid nasal sprays (choice D) is incorrect as they are commonly used and effective in managing allergic rhinitis symptoms without significant systemic effects when used as directed.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is preparing a patient for thoracentesis. Which position is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct position for thoracentesis is sitting upright and leaning forward (Choice B). This position allows better access to the thoracic cavity, facilitating the procedure and reducing the risk of complications. Sitting upright helps expand the intercostal space, making it easier to insert the needle accurately. Leaning forward also helps the patient breathe more comfortably during the procedure. Supine position (Choice A) with the head of the bed flat may not provide optimal access to the thoracic cavity. Lying on the affected side (Choice C) may not allow proper visualization and access to the site. Prone position with arms raised above the head (Choice D) is not suitable for thoracentesis as it does not facilitate proper access to the thoracic cavity.
Question 4 of 5
A patient with influenza complains of worsening fatigue and shortness of breath. What is the priority nursing action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess lung sounds for crackles. This is the priority nursing action because the patient's worsening fatigue and shortness of breath may indicate developing pneumonia, a common complication of influenza. Assessing lung sounds for crackles helps in identifying any signs of respiratory distress or infection, which require immediate intervention. Encouraging rest and fluid intake (choice A) is important but not the priority in this case. Providing supportive oxygen therapy (choice C) may be necessary based on assessment findings but should come after assessing lung sounds. Notifying the healthcare provider immediately (choice D) is important but assessing the patient's condition first is crucial for prompt intervention.
Question 5 of 5
A patient recovering from a thoracotomy has new-onset shortness of breath. What is the nurse's priority action?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because assessing oxygen saturation and lung sounds is crucial in determining the patient's respiratory status. This helps identify potential complications like pneumothorax or atelectasis, which are common after thoracotomy. Deep breaths (A) can worsen conditions like pneumothorax. Notifying the healthcare provider (B) may delay immediate action. Administering bronchodilators (D) is not appropriate without a comprehensive assessment.