The nurse is teaching a client with a new diagnosis of COPD about pursed-lip breathing. What is the primary benefit of this technique?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Reduces airway resistance. Pursed-lip breathing helps to slow down the exhalation process, which in turn reduces the amount of air trapped in the lungs and decreases airway resistance. This technique promotes better oxygen exchange and helps the client breathe more efficiently. A: Increases oxygen intake - Pursed-lip breathing does not directly increase oxygen intake but rather improves the efficiency of oxygen exchange by reducing airway resistance. C: Slows the respiratory rate - While pursed-lip breathing may slow down the breathing pattern, the primary benefit is the reduction of airway resistance, not solely slowing the respiratory rate. D: Prevents hyperventilation - Pursed-lip breathing can help prevent hyperventilation by promoting more controlled breathing, but the primary benefit is the reduction of airway resistance for clients with COPD.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Lose weight to reduce airway obstruction. This recommendation is most appropriate as excess weight can contribute to airway obstruction in obstructive sleep apnea. Losing weight can help reduce the amount of fatty tissue around the airway, improving airflow during sleep. A: Sleeping in a supine position may worsen obstructive sleep apnea by causing the tongue and soft tissues to block the airway. B: Limiting fluid intake in the evening may help reduce nighttime trips to the bathroom but does not directly address the underlying cause of obstructive sleep apnea. D: Avoiding the use of CPAP even if symptoms improve is not recommended as CPAP therapy is an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea and helps maintain open airways during sleep.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: High Fowler's with arms supported on a table. This position allows for easier access to the thoracic cavity, facilitating the thoracentesis procedure. High Fowler's position also helps the client breathe more comfortably and reduces the risk of complications. A: Supine with arms at the sides would not provide optimal access to the thoracic cavity. C: Prone with a pillow under the chest would hinder access to the thoracic cavity and compromise the procedure. D: Side-lying with the affected side down could also impair access to the thoracic cavity and make the procedure more challenging.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal of oxygen therapy for a client with chronic bronchitis is to improve oxygen delivery to tissues. In chronic bronchitis, the airways are inflamed and narrowed, leading to decreased oxygen exchange. Providing supplemental oxygen helps increase oxygen levels in the blood, improving oxygen delivery to tissues throughout the body. This can alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue. Choice A is incorrect because oxygen therapy primarily focuses on increasing oxygen levels, not reducing carbon dioxide levels. Choice C is incorrect as oxygen therapy does not directly address mucus production. Choice D is incorrect as the goal of oxygen therapy is not specifically to prevent pneumonia, although adequate oxygenation can support overall respiratory health and reduce the risk of complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increased shortness of breath. After a thoracentesis, a potential complication is a pneumothorax, causing increased shortness of breath. This requires immediate medical attention to prevent respiratory compromise. Choices A, C, and D are common post-thoracentesis symptoms that may occur but do not indicate an urgent need for medical intervention.