The nurse prepares a patient with acute shortness of breath for arterial blood gas (ABG) collection. Which action is most appropriate?

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Question 1 of 5

The nurse prepares a patient with acute shortness of breath for arterial blood gas (ABG) collection. Which action is most appropriate?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Performing the Allen test before puncturing the radial artery ensures adequate collateral circulation in case the radial artery becomes occluded during the ABG collection. This step helps prevent ischemia and other complications. Administering oxygen before obtaining the sample (A) is not recommended as it can alter the ABG results. Positioning the patient supine (B) is not necessary for ABG collection. Keeping the patient NPO for 6 hours (D) is not required for an ABG test.

Question 2 of 5

A patient reports sudden shortness of breath and chest pain. Which condition should the nurse suspect first?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pulmonary embolism. This is the most critical condition among the choices that presents with sudden shortness of breath and chest pain. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, causing blockage in the pulmonary arteries, leading to severe respiratory distress and chest pain. The other choices (Acute bronchitis, Pneumonia, and Asthma exacerbation) may also present with similar symptoms, but they typically do not manifest as suddenly and severely as a pulmonary embolism. It is crucial for the nurse to suspect and prioritize investigating a pulmonary embolism in this scenario due to its life-threatening nature and the need for immediate medical intervention.

Question 3 of 5

Which intervention is most important for a patient with rib fractures?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because deep breathing and coughing help prevent respiratory complications such as pneumonia in patients with rib fractures. Encouraging these actions can prevent atelectasis and promote lung expansion. Option A is incorrect because binding the chest tightly can restrict breathing and exacerbate respiratory issues. Option C is incorrect as pain medication should be administered as needed for adequate pain control. Option D is incorrect because restricting fluid intake does not directly address the respiratory complications associated with rib fractures.

Question 4 of 5

Which statement by a patient with a new tracheostomy indicates a need for further teaching?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale for Choice C (correct answer): Suctioning a tracheostomy every 2 hours is excessive and can lead to mucosal trauma, infection, and compromised airway. Suctioning should be done only when necessary to maintain airway patency. Cleaning around the stoma, replacing soiled ties, and humidifying the air are all important aspects of tracheostomy care. Suctioning every 2 hours is not routine practice and can be harmful.

Question 5 of 5

A patient reports a chronic cough with thick, green sputum production. Which condition does this suggest?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The presence of thick, green sputum suggests an infection with bacteria. Pneumonia is characterized by an infection in the lungs leading to sputum production. This aligns with the patient's chronic cough and sputum color. Bronchitis typically presents with clear or white sputum. Tuberculosis usually causes bloody or yellowish sputum. Pulmonary embolism does not typically cause sputum production. Therefore, option C, pneumonia, is the most likely condition based on the symptoms described.

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