The nurse is preparing a teaching plan for a client with emphysema. What should the nurse emphasize to prevent complications?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Avoid exposure to respiratory irritants. Emphasizing this point is crucial in preventing complications for a client with emphysema because irritants such as smoke, pollution, and dust can worsen respiratory symptoms and exacerbate the condition. By avoiding these triggers, the client can reduce the risk of flare-ups and complications. Other choices are incorrect because: A: Limiting physical activity may lead to deconditioning and weaken respiratory muscles, which can worsen the client's condition. C: Using a humidifier can help with dryness, but it does not address the primary concern of avoiding irritants that can exacerbate emphysema. D: Increasing sodium intake is not directly related to preventing complications in emphysema and can even lead to fluid retention and worsen symptoms.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "I will inhale deeply into the device to expand my lungs." This statement indicates correct understanding because using an incentive spirometer involves inhaling deeply to fully expand the lungs, promoting better lung ventilation and preventing complications like pneumonia. Choice A is incorrect because using the device once every few hours may not be frequent enough. Choice C is incorrect because the spirometer should be used proactively, not just when feeling short of breath. Choice D is incorrect because exhaling quickly is not the correct technique for using an incentive spirometer.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Providing oral care with chlorhexidine. This is because oral care helps reduce the bacteria in the mouth that can be aspirated into the lungs, leading to VAP. Regular oral care with chlorhexidine can prevent colonization of harmful bacteria in the oral cavity, reducing the risk of VAP. Administering antibiotics won't prevent VAP but treat infections. Suctioning every hour can increase the risk of infection, and elevating the head of the bed to 15 degrees may help prevent aspiration but is not as effective as proper oral care in preventing VAP.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ensuring the reservoir bag remains inflated. This is crucial as it indicates the client is receiving the intended high-flow oxygen without rebreathing exhaled CO2. If the bag deflates, it suggests a leak or inadequate flow. Option B is not relevant as the flow rate for a non-rebreather mask is typically higher. Option C is less critical than ensuring oxygen delivery. Option D is important but not the priority when the client's oxygenation is at stake.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Oxygen saturation levels. This is the priority assessment because in a client with a history of COPD experiencing increasing dyspnea, it is crucial to assess their oxygen saturation levels to determine if they are hypoxic. Hypoxia can exacerbate COPD symptoms and lead to respiratory distress. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels helps in assessing the effectiveness of respiratory interventions. Choice B (Heart rate and blood pressure) is important but not the priority as hypoxia can directly impact these vital signs. Choice C (Capillary refill time) is more relevant for assessing perfusion in cardiovascular conditions. Choice D (Level of consciousness) is important but assessing oxygen saturation levels takes precedence in a client with COPD and worsening dyspnea.