Which intervention should the nurse implement for a patient with a chest tube and continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because checking all connections for a loose fitting is essential in this situation. This step ensures that there are no leaks or disconnections along the chest tube system, which could be causing the continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber. Clamping the chest tube (Choice A) could lead to a tension pneumothorax and is not recommended. Notifying the healthcare provider of an air leak (Choice B) can be done after checking the connections. Repositioning the tubing (Choice C) may not address the underlying issue of a loose connection.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because discontinuing corticosteroid therapy abruptly can lead to asthma exacerbation and potentially life-threatening consequences. Patients must not stop corticosteroids abruptly without consulting their healthcare provider. Choice B is incorrect as increasing the dose may be necessary under medical supervision. Choice C is incorrect as increasing the beta-agonist dose can be a part of asthma management. Choice D is incorrect as monitoring for signs of infection is a necessary precaution when on corticosteroid therapy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer oxygen therapy. In COPD exacerbation, there is inadequate oxygenation due to impaired lung function. Administering oxygen therapy is the priority to improve oxygen levels and prevent hypoxia. Oxygen therapy helps reduce the work of breathing and decrease the workload on the heart. It is crucial to address hypoxemia promptly to prevent further complications. Summary: - Option B: Administering a bronchodilator can help improve airflow but is not the priority in a COPD exacerbation. - Option C: Administering fluids and electrolytes may be needed, but oxygen therapy takes precedence in improving oxygenation. - Option D: Encouraging deep breathing exercises is beneficial but not as urgent as providing oxygen therapy to address hypoxemia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Administer analgesics. The priority nursing intervention for a postoperative patient experiencing severe pain is to address the pain first to ensure patient comfort and improve recovery. Administering analgesics will help alleviate the patient's pain and promote their well-being. IV fluids (choice B) may be necessary but addressing pain takes precedence. Antiemetics (choice C) may be needed if the patient is experiencing nausea or vomiting, but pain management is the immediate priority. Administering analgesics (choice A) is the most appropriate and urgent intervention to prioritize the patient's comfort and recovery.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Place the patient on NPO status. This is crucial to prevent aspiration during surgery. NPO status ensures the patient's stomach is empty, reducing the risk of vomiting and aspiration of stomach contents during anesthesia induction. Explanation (B) and (C) are important but not the immediate priority. Performing a preoperative assessment (D) is also important but not as critical as ensuring the patient is NPO to prevent complications during surgery.