The nurse teaches a patient with a new diagnosis of asthma how to use a peak flow meter. Which statement by the patient indicates effective learning?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is option A: "I will blow into the meter as hard and fast as possible." This statement indicates effective learning because using a peak flow meter requires the patient to forcefully exhale to get an accurate reading of their peak expiratory flow rate, which is crucial in monitoring asthma symptoms and determining the effectiveness of treatment. Option B is incorrect because inhaling deeply before exhaling into the peak flow meter can affect the accuracy of the reading. The patient should exhale normally and forcefully to obtain the correct measurement. Option C is incorrect because peak flow meters are used for regular monitoring of asthma symptoms, not just when the patient feels short of breath. Regular use helps in identifying early signs of worsening asthma and adjusting treatment accordingly. Option D is incorrect because holding the breath after using the peak flow meter is not necessary and does not contribute to obtaining an accurate reading. It is important for the patient to exhale forcefully into the meter and then record the value without holding their breath. In an educational context, it is vital for patients with asthma to understand how to correctly use a peak flow meter to monitor their lung function. By providing clear instructions and ensuring that patients demonstrate the correct technique, nurses can empower patients to actively manage their asthma and seek timely medical intervention when necessary.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse's priority action should be to apply oxygen therapy (Option C) for the patient suspected of having a pulmonary embolism (PE). Oxygen therapy is crucial in the management of PE because it helps improve oxygenation and prevent hypoxia, which can be life-threatening in this condition. Administering anticoagulant therapy (Option A) is an important intervention for PE, but oxygen therapy takes precedence as it addresses the immediate need for oxygenation. Notifying the healthcare provider (Option B) is also important, but it is not the priority over ensuring the patient has adequate oxygen supply. Elevating the patient's legs (Option D) is not indicated in the management of PE and would not address the immediate need for oxygenation in this situation. Educationally, understanding the priority actions in managing a patient with a suspected PE is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Prioritizing interventions based on the patient's condition and immediate needs is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option B, which is an oxygen saturation of 86%. Oxygen saturation represents the amount of oxygen carried by hemoglobin in the blood. A saturation level of 86% is considered critically low and requires immediate intervention to prevent hypoxia, which can lead to serious complications like organ damage or failure. Option A, dryness around the nostrils, is not an immediate concern and can be addressed with simple interventions like humidification. Option C, a respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute, falls within the normal range and does not indicate an urgent issue. Option D, occasional nasal bleeding, while concerning, is not as critical as the low oxygen saturation level and can be managed while addressing the oxygenation problem. Educationally, understanding the importance of monitoring oxygen saturation levels is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially in patients receiving oxygen therapy. This knowledge helps in early identification of hypoxia and prompt intervention to ensure patient safety and well-being. It also highlights the significance of prioritizing interventions based on the severity of the patient's condition.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is B) "It's too late to quit smoking since I already have lung damage." This statement indicates a misunderstanding of the benefits of smoking cessation and the body's ability to heal. It is crucial to address this misconception as quitting smoking at any stage can still significantly improve lung function and overall health outcomes. Option A) "I will use nicotine patches to help me quit." is a positive step towards smoking cessation and shows the patient's willingness to seek help in quitting, indicating an understanding of the process. Option C) "Quitting smoking will improve my overall lung function." is a correct statement that demonstrates an understanding of the benefits of smoking cessation on lung health. Option D) "I will set a quit date and stick to it." is a proactive approach towards quitting smoking, showing readiness and commitment to the cessation process. In an educational context, it is essential to emphasize to patients with COPD that quitting smoking is beneficial at any stage and can lead to improved lung function and quality of life. Addressing misconceptions and providing accurate information is key to supporting patients in their smoking cessation journey and overall management of COPD.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Collaborate with a speech therapist for evaluation. This is the most appropriate action because difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, in a patient with a tracheostomy can have serious implications such as aspiration, respiratory distress, and inadequate nutrition. Speech therapists are trained to assess and manage swallowing disorders, including those related to tracheostomies. They can perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause of the swallowing difficulty and recommend appropriate interventions, such as modified diets or exercises to improve swallowing function. Option A, inflating the tracheostomy cuff fully, is incorrect as it can further impede swallowing function and increase the risk of aspiration. Option C, encouraging the patient to eat soft foods only, is incorrect because without a proper evaluation, it is unsafe to assume that changing the food consistency will address the swallowing issue. Option D, increasing oral fluid intake, is also incorrect because it does not address the underlying cause of the swallowing difficulty and may not be safe if there is a risk of aspiration. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to understand the significance of dysphagia in patients with tracheostomies and the appropriate steps to take when a patient reports difficulty swallowing. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as speech therapists, is essential in providing holistic care and ensuring patient safety and well-being. Nurses must prioritize patient assessment, interdisciplinary communication, and evidence-based practice to deliver high-quality care in complex clinical situations like this one.