The nurse is educating an asthma patient about proper use of the peak flowmeter. The nurse determines that the patient needs further teaching when observing which action?

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Question 1 of 5

The nurse is educating an asthma patient about proper use of the peak flowmeter. The nurse determines that the patient needs further teaching when observing which action?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because breathing deeply through the mouthpiece can lead to incorrect peak flow readings. To explain further, deep breathing can artificially inflate the lungs and result in a higher peak flow reading than the patient's actual lung function. Therefore, this action would not provide an accurate assessment of the patient's peak flow. A: Repeating the procedure and obtaining three readings is correct as it helps ensure accuracy and consistency. C: Standing while performing the test is acceptable and does not affect the accuracy of the peak flow reading. D: Reporting the highest reading on the peak flow sheet is appropriate as it reflects the patient's best effort.

Question 2 of 5

Which action should the nurse take to prepare a client with a pleural effusion for a thoracentesis?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct action is to position the client sitting up on the side of the bed. This position allows for easier access to the pleural space during the thoracentesis procedure. Sitting up also helps to expand the intercostal spaces, making it easier for the healthcare provider to locate the fluid collection. Choice A is incorrect as fasting is not typically required for a thoracentesis procedure. Choice B is unnecessary as sedation is not routinely used for this procedure. Choice D is incorrect as the amount of pleural fluid to be removed varies and a specific collection device is not always needed. In summary, positioning the client sitting up on the side of the bed is the most appropriate action to prepare for a thoracentesis procedure, as it facilitates access and fluid removal.

Question 3 of 5

A man with normal lungs and arterial pCO2 of 40mmHg takes an overdose of barbiturates,which half his ventilation but don't change his CO2 output. What does his arterial pCO2 rise to?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 80mmHg. When a person takes an overdose of barbiturates that reduce ventilation but not CO2 output, it leads to respiratory depression. This causes retention of CO2 in the body, leading to hypercapnia. With normal lungs and initial arterial pCO2 of 40mmHg, a rise to 80mmHg is expected due to the decreased ventilation. The other choices are incorrect because they do not account for the significant impact of reduced ventilation on CO2 retention in this scenario. Choice A, 70mmHg, is too low of a rise considering the drastic reduction in ventilation. Choices B and C, 50mmHg and 60mmHg, respectively, do not adequately reflect the extent of hypercapnia that occurs with respiratory depression.

Question 4 of 5

The organs of the conducting zone of the respiratory system include all the following EXCEPT:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: alveoli. The conducting zone of the respiratory system consists of structures that conduct air to and from the gas exchange surfaces. Alveoli are the site of gas exchange, not part of the conducting zone. The nose (A), trachea (B), and bronchi (C) are all part of the conducting zone as they help transport air to the lungs. Alveoli are where oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange occurs during respiration.

Question 5 of 5

Nurse Oliver is caring for a client immediately after removal of the endotracheal tube. The nurse reports which of the following signs immediately if experienced by the client?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stridor. Stridor is a high-pitched, harsh sound heard during inspiration or expiration due to airway obstruction. It is a critical sign that requires immediate attention as it indicates a potential blockage in the airway, which can lead to respiratory distress or failure. Explanation of why other choices are incorrect: - B: Occasional pink-tinged sputum may indicate mild bleeding, but it is not an immediate concern post-extubation. - C: A few basilar lung crackles on the right could indicate fluid in the lungs, but it is not as urgent as airway obstruction. - D: A respiratory rate of 24 breaths/min is within the normal range for an adult and does not necessarily indicate an immediate issue post-extubation.

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