Which action should the nurse prioritize after a patient undergoes a thoracentesis?

Questions 65

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

Oxygen Questions and Answers PDF Questions

Question 1 of 5

Which action should the nurse prioritize after a patient undergoes a thoracentesis?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Check for signs of pneumothorax. After thoracentesis, the nurse must prioritize checking for signs of pneumothorax as it is a potential complication. Symptoms include sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, and decreased oxygen saturation. Monitoring blood pressure and encouraging deep breathing are important but not the priority. Sending the fluid sample to the lab can be done later, as immediate assessment for complications is crucial.

Question 2 of 5

The nurse prepares to administer a flu vaccine to a patient. Which condition requires the nurse to consult the provider first?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the flu vaccine is typically grown in eggs, so individuals with an egg allergy may experience an allergic reaction. Consulting the provider is necessary to determine if an alternative vaccine or precaution is needed. Choices A, C, and D do not contraindicate the administration of the flu vaccine and do not require consultation before administration.

Question 3 of 5

The nurse discusses acute sinusitis management with a patient. Which statement indicates the need for further teaching?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Nasal decongestant sprays should not be used for more than 3 days due to the risk of rebound congestion. Choice A promotes hydration, which is beneficial. Choice C supports pain management. Choice D encourages monitoring for changes in nasal secretions, which is important for tracking progress. Long-term use of nasal decongestant sprays can worsen symptoms.

Question 4 of 5

A patient with pneumonia reports severe pleuritic chest pain. What is the nurse's priority action?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer prescribed pain medication. Severe pleuritic chest pain in a patient with pneumonia indicates inflammation of the pleura, which can be very distressing and require immediate relief. Administering pain medication will help alleviate the patient's discomfort, improve breathing, and enhance their overall well-being. Positioning the patient in high Fowler's (choice B) may help with breathing but does not address the immediate pain relief needed. Encouraging deep breathing exercises (choice C) may exacerbate the pain. Applying warm compresses to the chest (choice D) may provide some comfort but does not directly address the severe pain.

Question 5 of 5

What is the priority intervention for a patient experiencing an asthma attack?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer albuterol via inhaler. Albuterol is a bronchodilator that helps open the airways during an asthma attack, providing quick relief. This intervention addresses the underlying issue of bronchoconstriction, improving airflow and oxygenation. Other choices are not the priority: B could potentially worsen the condition by diluting the inspired oxygen with room air, C may not directly address the airway obstruction, and D, while helpful for managing symptoms, does not directly target bronchoconstriction during an acute attack.

Access More Questions!

ATI RN Basic


$89/ 30 days

ATI RN Premium


$150/ 90 days

Similar Questions