HESI Med Surg – Flashcards
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The nurse assesses a patient with shortness of breath for evidence of long-standing hypoxemia by inspecting: A. Chest excursion B. Spinal curvatures C. The respiratory pattern D. The fingernail and its base
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D. The fingernail and its base Clubbing, a sign of long-standing hypoxemia, is evidenced by an increase in the angle between the base of the nail and the fingernail to 180 degrees or more, usually accompanied by an increase in the depth, bulk, and sponginess of the end of the finger.
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2. The nurse is caring for a patient with COPD and pneumonia who has an order for arterial blood gases to be drawn. Which of the following is the minimum length of time the nurse should plan to hold pressure on the puncture site? A. 2 minutes B. 5 minutes C. 10 minutes D. 15 minutes
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B. 5 minutes Following obtaining an arterial blood gas, the nurse should hold pressure on the puncture site for 5 minutes by the clock to be sure that bleeding has stopped. An artery is an elastic vessel under higher pressure than veins, and significant blood loss or hematoma formation could occur if the time is insufficient.
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3. The nurse notices clear nasal drainage in a patient newly admitted with facial trauma, including a nasal fracture. The nurse should: A. test the drainage for the presence of glucose. B. suction the nose to maintain airway clearance. C. document the findings and continue monitoring. D. apply a drip pad and reassure the patient this is normal.
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A. test the drainage for the presence of glucose. Clear nasal drainage suggests leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The drainage should be tested for the presence of glucose, which would indicate the presence of CSF.
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4. When caring for a patient who is 3 hours postoperative laryngectomy, the nurse's highest priority assessment would be: A. Airway patency B. Patient comfort C. Incisional drainage D. Blood pressure and heart rate
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A. Airway patency Remember ABCs with prioritization. Airway patency is always the highest priority and is essential for a patient undergoing surgery surrounding the upper respiratory system.
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5. When initially teaching a patient the supraglottic swallow following a radical neck dissection, with which of the following foods should the nurse begin? A. Cola B. Applesauce C. French fries D. White grape juice
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A. ColaWhen learning the supraglottic swallow, it may be helpful to start with carbonated beverages because the effervescence provides clues about the liquid's position. Thin, watery fluids should be avoided because they are difficult to swallow and increase the risk of aspiration. Nonpourable pureed foods, such as applesauce, would decrease the risk of aspiration, but carbonated beverages are the better choice to start with.
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6. The nurse is caring for a patient admitted to the hospital with pneumonia. Upon assessment, the nurse notes a temperature of 101.4° F, a productive cough with yellow sputum and a respiratory rate of 20. Which of the following nursing diagnosis is most appropriate based upon this assessment? A. Hyperthermia related to infectious illness B. Ineffective thermoregulation related to chilling C. Ineffective breathing pattern related to pneumonia D. Ineffective airway clearance related to thick secretions
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A. Hyperthermia related to infectious illness Because the patient has spiked a temperature and has a diagnosis of pneumonia, the logical nursing diagnosis is hyperthermia related to infectious illness. There is no evidence of a chill, and her breathing pattern is within normal limits at 20 breaths per minute. There is no evidence of ineffective airway clearance from the information given because the patient is expectorating sputum.
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7. Which of the following physical assessment findings in a patient with pneumonia best supports the nursing diagnosis of ineffective airway clearance? A. Oxygen saturation of 85% B. Respiratory rate of 28 C. Presence of greenish sputum D. Basilar crackles
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D. Basilar crackles The presence of adventitious breath sounds indicates that there is accumulation of secretions in the lower airways. This would be consistent with a nursing diagnosis of ineffective airway clearance because the patient is retaining secretions.
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8. Which of the following clinical manifestations would the nurse expect to find during assessment of a patient admitted with pneumococcal pneumonia? A. Hyperresonance on percussion B. Fine crackles in all lobes on auscultation C. Increased vocal fremitus on palpation D. Vesicular breath sounds in all lobes
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C. Increased vocal fremitus on palpation. A typical physical examination finding for a patient with pneumonia is increased vocal fremitus on palpation. Other signs of pulmonary consolidation include dullness to percussion, bronchial breath sounds, and crackles in the affected area.
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9. Which of the following nursing interventions is of the highest priority in helping a patient expectorate thick secretions related to pneumonia? A. Humidify the oxygen as able B. Increase fluid intake to 3L/day if tolerated. C. Administer cough suppressant q4hr. D. Teach patient to splint the affected area.
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B. Increase fluid intake to 3L/day if tolerated. Although several interventions may help the patient expectorate mucus, the highest priority should be on increasing fluid intake, which will liquefy the secretions so that the patient can expectorate them more easily. Humidifying the oxygen is also helpful, but is not the primary intervention. Teaching the patient to splint the affected area may also be helpful, but does not liquefy the secretions so that they can be removed.
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10. During discharge teaching for a 65-year-old patient with emphysema and pneumonia, which of the following vaccines should the nurse recommend the patient receive? A. S. aureus B. H. influenzae C. Pneumococcal D. Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG)
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C. Pneumococcal The pneumococcal vaccine is important for patients with a history of heart or lung disease, recovering from a severe illness, age 65 or over, or living in a long-term care facility.
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11. The nurse evaluates that discharge teaching for a patient hospitalized with pneumonia has been most effective when the patient states which of the following measures to prevent a relapse? A. "I will increase my food intake to 2400 calories a day to keep my immune system well." B. "I must use home oxygen therapy for 3 months and then will have a chest x-ray to reevaluate." C. "I will seek immediate medical treatment for any upper respiratory infections." D. "I should continue to do deep-breathing and coughing exercises for at least 6 weeks."
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D. "I should continue to do deep-breathing and coughing exercises for at least 6 weeks." It is important for the patient to continue with coughing and deep breathing exercises for 6 to 8 weeks until all of the infection has cleared from the lungs. A patient should seek medical treatment for upper respiratory infections that persist for more than 7 days. Increased fluid intake, not caloric intake, is required to liquefy secretions. Home O2 is not a requirement unless the patient's oxygenation saturation is below normal.
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12. After admitting a patient to the medical unit with a diagnosis of pneumonia, the nurse will verify that which of the following physician orders have been completed before administering a dose of cefotetan (Cefotan) to the patient? A. Serum laboratory studies ordered for AM B. Pulmonary function evaluation C. Orthostatic blood pressures D. Sputum culture and sensitivity
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D. Sputum culture and sensitivityThe nurse should ensure that the sputum for culture and sensitivity was sent to the laboratory before administering the cefotetan. It is important that the organisms are correctly identified (by the culture) before their numbers are affected by the antibiotic; the test will also determine whether the proper antibiotic has been ordered (sensitivity testing). Although antibiotic administration should not be unduly delayed while waiting for the patient to expectorate sputum, all of the other options will not be affected by the administration of antibiotics.
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13. Which of the following nursing interventions is most appropriate to enhance oxygenation in a patient with unilateral malignant lung disease? A. Positioning patient on right side. B. Maintaining adequate fluid intake C. Performing postural drainage every 4 hours D. Positioning patient with "good lung down"
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D. Positioning patient with "good lung down" Therapeutic positioning identifies the best position for the patient assuring stable oxygenation status. Research indicates that positioning the patient with the unaffected lung (good lung) dependent best promotes oxygenation in patients with unilateral lung disease. For bilateral lung disease, the right lung down has best ventilation and perfusion. Increasing fluid intake and performing postural drainage will facilitate airway clearance, but positioning is most appropriate to enhance oxygenation.
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14. A 71-year-old patient is admitted with acute respiratory distress related to cor pulmonale. Which of the following nursing interventions is most appropriate during admission of this patient? A. Delay any physical assessment of the patient and review with the family the patient's history of respiratory problems. B. Perform a comprehensive health history with the patient to review prior respiratory problems. C. Perform a physical assessment of the respiratory system and ask specific questions related to this episode of respiratory distress. D. Complete a full physical examination to determine the effect of the respiratory distress on other body functions.
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C. Perform a physical assessment of the respiratory system and ask specific questions related to this episode of respiratory distress.Because the patient is having respiratory difficulty, the nurse should ask specific questions about this episode and perform a physical assessment of this system. Further history taking and physical examination of other body systems can proceed once the patient's acute respiratory distress is being managed.
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15. When planning appropriate nursing interventions for a patient with metastatic lung cancer and a 60-pack-year history of cigarette smoking, the nurse recognizes that the smoking has most likely decreased the patient's underlying respiratory defenses because of impairment of which of the following? A. Reflex bronchoconstriction B. Ability to filter particles from the air C. Cough reflex D. Mucociliary clearance
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D. Mucociliary clearance Smoking decreases the ciliary action in the tracheobronchial tree, resulting in impaired clearance of respiratory secretions, chronic cough, and frequent respiratory infections.
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16. While ambulating a patient with metastatic lung cancer, the nurse observes a drop in oxygen saturation from 93% to 86%. Which of the following nursing interventions is most appropriate based upon these findings? A. Continue with ambulation as this is a normal response to activity. B. Move the oximetry probe from the finger to the earlobe for more accurate monitoring during activity. C. Obtain a physician's order for supplemental oxygen to be used during ambulation and other activity. D. Obtain a physician's order for arterial blood gas determinations to verify the oxygen saturation.
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C. Obtain a physician's order for supplemental oxygen to be used during ambulation and other activity. An oxygen saturation level that drops below 90% with activity indicates that the patient is not tolerating the exercise and needs to have supplemental oxygen applied.
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17. The nurse is caring for a 73-year-old patient who underwent a left total knee arthroplasty. On the third postoperative day, the patient complains of shortness of breath, slight chest pain, and that "something is wrong." Temperature is 98.4o F, blood pressure 130/88, respirations 36, and oxygen saturation 91% on room air. Which of the following should the nurse first suspect as the etiology of this episode? A. Septic embolus from the knee joint B. Pulmonary embolus from deep vein thrombosis C. New onset of angina pectoris D. Pleural effusion related to positioning in the operating room
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B. Pulmonary embolus from deep vein thrombosis The patient presents the classic symptoms of pulmonary embolus: acute onset of symptoms, tachypnea, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
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18. In the case of pulmonary embolus from deep vein thrombosis, which of the following actions should the nurse take first? A. Notify the physician. B. Administer a nitroglycerin tablet sublingually. C. Conduct a thorough assessment of the chest pain. D. Sit the patient up in bed as tolerated and apply oxygen.
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D. Sit the patient up in bed as tolerated and apply oxygen.The patient's clinical picture is consistent with pulmonary embolus, and the first action the nurse takes should be to assist the patient. For this reason, the nurse should sit the patient up as tolerated and apply oxygen before notifying the physician.
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19. The nurse is caring for a postoperative patient with sudden onset of respiratory distress. The physician orders a STAT ventilation-perfusion scan. Which of the following explanations should the nurse provide to the patient about the procedure? A. This test involves injection of a radioisotope to outline the blood vessels in the lungs, followed by inhalation of a radioisotope gas. B. This test will use special technology to examine cross sections of the chest with use of a contrast dye. C. This test will use magnetic fields to produce images of the lungs and chest. D. This test involves injecting contrast dye into a blood vessel to outline the blood vessels of the lungs.
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A. This test involves injection of a radioisotope to outline the blood vessels in the lungs, followed by inhalation of a radioisotope gas.A ventilation-perfusion scan has two parts. In the perfusion portion, a radioisotope is injected into the blood and the pulmonary vasculature is outlined. In the ventilation part, the patient inhales a radioactive gas that outlines the alveoli.
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20. During assessment of a 45-year-old patient with asthma, the nurse notes wheezing and dyspnea. The nurse interprets that these symptoms are related to which of the following pathophysiologic changes? A. Laryngospasm B. Overdistention of the alveoli C. Narrowing of the airway D. Pulmonary edema
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C. Narrowing of the airwayNarrowing of the airway leads to reduced airflow, making it difficult for the patient to breathe and producing the characteristic wheezing.
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21. A 45-year-old man with asthma is brought to the emergency department by automobile. He is short of breath and appears frightened. During the initial nursing assessment, which of the following clinical manifestations might be present as an early symptom during an exacerbation of asthma? A. Anxiety B. Cyanosis C. Hypercapnia D. Bradycardia
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A. Anxiety An early symptom during an asthma attack is anxiety because he is acutely aware of the inability to get sufficient air to breathe. He will be hypoxic early on with decreased PaCO2 and increased pH as he is hyperventilating.
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22. The nurse is assigned to care for a patient who has anxiety and an exacerbation of asthma. Which of the following is the primary reason for the nurse to carefully inspect the chest wall of this patient? A. Observe for signs of diaphoresis B. Allow time to calm the patient C. Monitor the patient for bilateral chest expansion D. Evaluate the use of intercostal muscles
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D. Evaluate the use of intercostal muscles The nurse physically inspects the chest wall to evaluate the use of intercostal (accessory) muscles, which gives an indication of the degree of respiratory distress experienced by the patient.
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23. Which of the following positions is most appropriate for the nurse to place a patient experiencing an asthma exacerbation? A. Supine B. Lithotomy C. High-Fowler's D. Reverse Trendelenburg
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C. High-Fowler'sThe patient experiencing an asthma attack should be placed in high-Fowler's position to allow for optimal chest expansion and enlist the aid of gravity during inspiration.
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24. The nurse is caring for a patient with an acute exacerbation of asthma. Following initial treatment, which of the following findings indicates to the nurse that the patient's respiratory status is improving? A. Wheezing becomes louder B. Vesicular breath sounds decrease C. Aerosol bronchodilators stimulate coughing D. The cough remains nonproductive
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A. Wheezing becomes louder The primary problem during an exacerbation of asthma is narrowing of the airway and subsequent diminished air exchange. As the airways begin to dilate, wheezing gets louder because of better air exchange.
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25. The nurse identifies the nursing diagnosis of activity intolerance for a patient with asthma. The nurse assesses for which of the following etiologic factor for this nursing diagnosis in patients with asthma? A. Anxiety and restlessness B. Effects of medications C. Fear of suffocation D. Work of breathing
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D. Work of breathingWhen the patient does not have sufficient gas exchange to engage in activity, the etiologic factor is often the work of breathing. When patients with asthma do not have effective respirations, they use all available energy to breathe and have little left over for purposeful activity.
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26. The nurse is assigned to care for a patient in the emergency department admitted with an exacerbation of asthma. The patient has received a β-adrenergic bronchodilator and supplemental oxygen. If the patient's condition does not improve, the nurse should anticipate which of the following is likely to be the next step in treatment? A. Pulmonary function testing B. Systemic corticosteroids C. Biofeedback therapy D. Intravenous fluids
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B. Systemic corticosteroids Systemic corticosteroids speed the resolution of asthma exacerbations and are indicated if the initial response to the β-adrenergic bronchodilator is insufficient.
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27. A patient with acute exacerbation of COPD needs to receive precise amounts of oxygen. Which of the following types of equipment should the nurse prepare to use? A. Venturi mask B. Partial non-rebreather mask C. Oxygen tent D. Nasal cannula
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A. Venturi mask The Venturi mask delivers precise concentrations of oxygen and should be selected whenever this is a priority concern. The other methods are less precise in terms of amount of oxygen delivered.
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28. While teaching a patient with asthma about the appropriate use of a peak flow meter, the nurse instructs the patient to do which of the following? A. Use the flow meter each morning after taking medications to evaluate their effectiveness. B. Empty the lungs and then inhale quickly through the mouthpiece to measure how fast air can be inhaled. C. Keep a record of the peak flow meter numbers if symptoms of asthma are getting worse. D. Increase the doses of the long-term control medication if the peak flow numbers decrease.
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C. Keep a record of the peak flow meter numbers if symptoms of asthma are getting worse. It is important to keep track of peak flow readings daily and when the patient's symptoms are getting worse. The patient should have specific directions as to when to call the physician based on personal peak flow numbers. Peak flow is measured by exhaling into the meters and should be assessed before and after medications to evaluate their effectiveness.
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29. The physician has prescribed salmeterol (Serevent) for a patient with asthma. In reviewing the use of dry powder inhalers (DPIs) with the patient, the nurse should provide which of the following instructions? A. "Close lips tightly around the mouthpiece and breathe in deeply and quickly." B. "To administer a DPI, you must use a spacer that holds the medicine so that you can inhale it." C. "Hold the inhaler several inches in front of your mouth and breathe in slowly, holding the medicine as long as possible." D. "You will know you have correctly used the DPI when you taste or sense the medicine going into your lungs."
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A. "Close lips tightly around the mouthpiece and breathe in deeply and quickly." Dry powder inhalers do not require spacer devices. The patient should be instructed to breathe in deeply and quickly to ensure medicine moves down deeply into lungs. The patient may not taste or sense the medicine going into the lungs.
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30. The nurse determines that a patient is experiencing common adverse effects from the inhaled corticosteroid beclomethasone (Beclovent) after noting which of the following? A. Adrenocortical dysfunction and hyperglycemia B. Elevation of blood glucose and calcium levels C. Oropharyngeal candidiasis and hoarseness D. Hypertension and pulmonary edema
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C. Oropharyngeal candidiasis and hoarseness Oropharyngeal candidiasis and hoarseness are common adverse effects from the use of inhaled corticosteroids because the medication can lead to overgrowth of organisms and local irritation if the patient does not rinse the mouth following each dose.
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31. The nurse determines that the patient understood medication instructions about the use of a spacer device when taking inhaled medications after hearing the patient state which of the following as the primary benefit? A. "Now I will not need to breathe in as deeply when taking the inhaler medications." B. "This device will make it so much easier and faster to take my inhaled medications." C. "I will pay less for medication because it will last longer." D. "More of the medication will get down into my lungs to help my breathing."
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D. "More of the medication will get down into my lungs to help my breathing." A spacer assists more medication to reach the lungs, with less being deposited in the mouth and the back of the throat.
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32. Which of the following test results identify that a patient with an asthma attack is responding to treatment? A. A decreased exhaled nitric oxide B. An increase in CO2 levels C. A decrease in white blood cell count D. An increase in serum bicarbonate levels
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A. A decreased exhaled nitric oxide. Nitric oxide levels are increased in the breath of people with asthma. A decrease in the exhaled nitric oxide concentration suggests that the treatment may be decreasing the lung inflammation associated with asthma.
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33. The nurse determines that the patient is not experiencing adverse effects of albuterol (Proventil) after noting which of the following patient vital signs? A. Oxygen saturation 96% B. Respiratory rate of 18 C. Temperature of 98.4° F D. Pulse rate of 76
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D. Pulse rate of 76 Albuterol is a β2-agonist that can sometimes cause adverse cardiovascular effects. These would include tachycardia and angina. A pulse rate of 76 indicates that the patient did not experience tachycardia as an adverse effect.
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34. The patient has an order for each of the following inhalers. Which of the following should the nurse offer to the patient at the onset of an asthma attack? A. Albuterol (Proventil) B. Beclomethasone (Beclovent) C. Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent) D. Salmeterol (Serevent)
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A. Albuterol (Proventil) Albuterol is a short-acting bronchodilator that should initially be given when the patient experiences an asthma attack.
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35. The nurse who has administered a first dose of oral prednisone (Deltasone) to the patient with asthma writes on the care plan to begin monitoring which of the following patient parameters? A. Intake and output B. Bowel sounds C. Apical pulse D. Deep tendon reflexes
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A. Intake and output Corticosteroids such as prednisone can lead to fluid retention. For this reason, it is important to monitor the patient's intake and output.
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36. The nurse is assisting a patient to learn self-administration of beclomethasone two puffs inhalation q6hr. The nurse explains that the best way to prevent oral infection while taking this medication is to do which of the following as part of the self-administration techniques? A. Chew a hard candy before the first puff of medication. B. Ask for a breath mint following the second puff of medication. C. Rinse the mouth with water before each puff of medication. D. Rinse the mouth with water following the second puff of medication.
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D. Rinse the mouth with water following the second puff of medication. The patient should rinse the mouth with water following the second puff of medication to reduce the risk of fungal overgrowth and oral infection.
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37. The nurse is scheduled to give a dose of salmeterol by metered dose inhaler (MDI). The nurse would administer the right drug by selecting the inhaler with which of the following trade names? A. Vanceril B. Serevent C. AeroBid D. Atrovent
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B. Serevent The trade or brand name for salmeterol, an adrenergic bronchodilator, is Serevent.
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38. The nurse is evaluating whether a patient understands how to safely determine whether a metered dose inhaler is empty. The nurse interprets that the patient understands this important information to prevent medication underdosing when the patient describes which method to check the inhaler? A. Place it in water to see if it floats. B. Shake the canister while holding it next to the ear. C. Check the indicator line on the side of the canister. D. Keep track of the number of inhalations used.
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D. Keep track of the number of inhalations used. It is no longer appropriate to see if a canister floats in water or not as research has demonstrated this is not accurate. The best method to determine when to replace an inhaler is by knowing the maximum puffs available per MDI and then replacing when those inhalations have been used.
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39. The nurse is scheduled to give a dose of ipratropium bromide by metered dose inhaler. The nurse would administer the right drug by selecting the inhaler with which of the following trade names? A. Vanceril B. Pulmicort C. AeroBid D. Atrovent
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D. Atrovent The trade or brand name for ipratropium bromide, an anticholinergic medication, is Atrovent.
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40. The patient has an order for albuterol 5 mg via nebulizer. Available is a solution containing 2 mg/ml. How many milliliters should the nurse use to prepare the patient's dose? A. 0.2 B. 2.5 C. 3.75 D. 5.0
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B. 2.5
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41. When planning patient teaching about emphysema, the nurse understands that the symptoms of emphysema are caused by which of the following? A. Hypertrophy and hyperplasia of goblet cells in the bronchi B. Collapse and hypoventilation of the terminal respiratory unit C. An overproduction of the antiprotease alpha1-antitrypsin D. Hyperinflation of alveoli and destruction of alveolar walls
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D. Hyperinflation of alveoli and destruction of alveolar walls In emphysema, there are structural changes that include hyperinflation of alveoli, destruction of alveolar walls, destruction of alveolar capillary walls, narrowing of small airways, and loss of lung elasticity.
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42. The patient has an order for albuterol 5 mg via nebulizer. Available is a solution containing 1 mg/ml. How many milliliters should the nurse use to prepare the patient's dose? A. 0.2 B. 2.5 C. 3.75 D. 5.0
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D. 5.0
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43. The nurse evaluates that nursing interventions to promote airway clearance in a patient admitted with COPD are successful based on which of the following findings? A. Absence of dyspnea B. Improved mental status C. Effective and productive coughing D. PaO2 within normal range for the patient
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C. Effective and productive coughing The issue of the question is airway clearance, which is most directly evaluated as successful if the patient can engage in effective and productive coughing.
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44. When caring for a patient with COPD, the nurse identifies a nursing diagnosis of imbalanced nutrition less than body requirements after noting a weight loss of 30 lb. Which of the following would be an appropriate intervention to add to the plan of care for this patient? A. Teach the patient to use frozen meals at home that can be microwaved. B. Provide a high-calorie, high-carbohydrate, nonirritating, frequent feeding diet. C. Order fruits and fruit juices to be offered between meals. D. Order a high-calorie, high-protein diet with six small meals a day.
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D. Order a high-calorie, high-protein diet with six small meals a day.Because the patient with COPD needs to use greater energy to breathe, there is often decreased oral intake because of dyspnea. A full stomach also impairs the ability of the diaphragm to descend during inspiration, interfering with the work of breathing. Finally, the metabolism of a high carbohydrate diet yields large amounts of CO2, which may lead to acidosis in patients with pulmonary disease. For these reasons, the patient with emphysema should take in a high-calorie, high-protein diet, eating six small meals per day.
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45. The nurse reviews pursed lip breathing with a patient newly diagnosed with emphysema. The nurse reinforces that this technique will assist respiration by which of the following mechanisms? A. Preventing bronchial collapse and air trapping in the lungs during exhalation B. Increasing the respiratory rate and giving the patient control of respiratory patterns C. Loosening secretions so that they may be coughed up more easily D. Promoting maximal inhalation for better oxygenation of the lungs
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A. Preventing bronchial collapse and air trapping in the lungs during exhalation The focus of pursed lip breathing is to slow down the exhalation phase of respiration, which decreases bronchial collapse and subsequent air trapping in the lungs during exhalation.
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46. Nursing assessment findings of jugular vein distention and pedal edema would be indicative of which of the following complications of emphysema? A. Acute respiratory failure B. Pulmonary edema caused by left-sided heart failure C. Fluid volume excess secondary to cor pulmonale D. Secondary respiratory infection
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C. Fluid volume excess secondary to cor pulmonale Cor pulmonale is a right-sided heart failure caused by resistance to right ventricular outflow due to lung disease. With failure of the right ventricle, the blood emptying into the right atrium and ventricle would be slowed, leading to jugular venous distention and pedal edema.
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47. A patient has been receiving oxygen per nasal cannula while hospitalized for COPD. The patient asks the nurse whether oxygen use will be needed at home. Which of the following would be the most appropriate response by the nurse? A. "Long-term home oxygen therapy should be used to prevent respiratory failure." B. "Oxygen will be needed when your oxygen saturation drops to 88% and you have symptoms of hypoxia. C. "Long-term home oxygen therapy should be used to prevent heart problems related to emphysema." D. "Oxygen will not be needed until or unless you are in the terminal stages of this disease."
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B. "Oxygen will be needed when your oxygen saturation drops to 88% and you have symptoms of hypoxia.Long-term oxygen therapy in the home should be considered when the oxygen saturation is 88% or less and the patient has signs of tissue hypoxia, such as cor pulmonale, erythrocytosis, or impaired mental status.
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48. Before discharge, the nurse discusses activity levels with a 61-year-old patient with COPD and pneumonia. Which of the following exercise goals is most appropriate once the patient is fully recovered from this episode of illness? A. Slightly increase activity over the current level. B. Walk for 20 minutes a day, keeping the pulse rate less than 130 beats per minute. C. Limit exercise to activities of daily living to conserve energy. D. Swim for 10 min/day, gradually increasing to 30 min/day.
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B. Walk for 20 minutes a day, keeping the pulse rate less than 130 beats per minute. The patient will benefit from mild aerobic exercise that does not stress the cardiorespiratory system. The patient should be encouraged to walk for 20 min/day, keeping the pulse rate less than 75% to 80% of maximum heart rate (220 minus patient's age).
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49. The nurse evaluates that a patient is experiencing the expected beneficial effects of ipratropium (Atrovent) after noting which of the following assessment findings? A. Increased peak flow readings B. Increased level of consciousness C. Decreased sputum production D. Increased respiratory rate
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A. Increased peak flow readings. Ipratropium is a bronchodilator that should lead to increased PEFRs.
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50. The nurse is teaching a patient how to self-administer ipratropium (Atrovent) via a metered dose inhaler. Which of the following instructions given by the nurse is most appropriate to help the patient learn proper inhalation technique? A. "Avoid shaking the inhaler before use." B. "Breathe out slowly before positioning the inhaler." C. "After taking a puff, hold the breath for 30 seconds before exhaling." D. "Using a spacer should be avoided for this type of medication."
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B. "Breathe out slowly before positioning the inhaler." It is important to breathe out slowly before positioning the inhaler. This allows the patient to take a deeper breath while inhaling the medication thus enhancing the effectiveness of the dose.
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51. Which of the following statements made by a patient with COPD indicates a need for further education regarding the use of an ipratropium inhaler? A. "I should rinse my mouth following the two puffs to get rid of the bad taste." B. "I should wait at least 1 to 2 minutes between each puff of the inhaler." C. "If my breathing gets worse, I should keep taking extra puffs of the inhaler until I can breathe more easily." D. "Because this medication is not fast-acting, I cannot use it in an emergency if my breathing gets worse.
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C. "If my breathing gets worse, I should keep taking extra puffs of the inhaler until I can breathe more easily." The patient should not take extra puffs of the inhaler at will to make breathing easier. Excessive treatment could trigger paradoxical bronchospasm, which would worsen the patient's respiratory status.
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52. When assessing a patient's sleep-rest pattern related to respiratory health, the nurse would ask if the patient: (Select all that apply.) A. Has trouble falling asleep B. Awakens abruptly during the night C. Sleeps more than 8 hours per night D. Has to sleep with the head elevated
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A,B,D The patient with sleep apnea may have insomnia and/or abrupt awakenings. Patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g., heart failure that may affect respiratory health) may need to sleep with the head elevated on several pillows (orthopnea). Sleeping more than 8 hours per night is not indicative of impaired respiratory health.
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53. A patient is being discharged from the emergency department after being treated for epistaxis. In teaching the family first aid measures in the event the epistaxis would recur, which of the following measures would the nurse suggest? (Select all that apply.) A. Tilt patients head backwards B. Apply ice compresses to the nose C. Pinch the entire soft lower portion of the nose D. Partially insert a small gauze pad into the bleeding nostril
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B,C,D First aid measures to control epistaxis includes placing the patient in a sitting position, leaning forward. Tilting the head back does not stop the bleeding, but rather allows the blood to enter the nasopharynx, which could result in aspiration or nausea/vomiting from swallowing blood. All of the other options are appropriate first aid treatment of epistaxis.
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54. To promote airway clearance in a patient with pneumonia, the nurse instructs the patient to do which of the following? (Select all that apply.) A. Splint the chest when coughing B. Maintain a semi-Fowler's position C. Maintain adequate fluid intake D. Instruct patient to cough at end of exhalation
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A,C,D The nurse should instruct the patient to splint the chest while coughing. This will reduce discomfort and allow for a more effective cough. Maintaining adequate fluid intake liquefies secretions, allowing easier expectoration. Coughing at the end of exhalation promotes a more effective cough. The patient should be positioned in an upright sitting position (high-Fowler's) with head slightly flexed.
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55. During admission of a patient diagnosed with non-small cell carcinoma of the lung, the nurse questions the patient related to a history of which of the following risk factors for this type of cancer? (Select all that apply.) A. Asbestos exposure B. Cigarette smoking C. Exposure to uranium D. Chronic interstitial fibrosis
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A,B,C Non-small carcinoma is associated with cigarette smoking and exposure to environmental carcinogens, including asbestos and uranium. Chronic interstitial fibrosis is associated with the development of adenocarcinoma of the lung.
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56. When admitting a 45-year-old female with a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism, the nurse will assess the patient for which of the following risk factors? (Select all that apply.) A. Obesity B. Pneumonia C. Hypertension D. Cigarette smoking
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A,C,D Research has demonstrated an increased risk of pulmonary embolism in women associated with obesity, heavy cigarette smoking, and hypertension. Other risk factors include immobilization, surgery within the last 3 months, stroke, history of DVT, and malignancy.
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57. When admitting a patient with the diagnosis of asthma exacerbation, the nurse will assess for which of the following potential triggers? (Select all that apply.) A. Exercise B. Allergies C. Emotional stress D. Decreased humidity
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A,B,C Although the exact mechanism of asthma is unknown, there are several triggers that may precipitate an attack. These include allergens, exercise, air pollutants, respiratory infections, drug and food additives, psychologic factors, and GERD.
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1. The arterial blood gas (ABG) readings that indicate compensated respiratory acidosis are a PaCO2 of A. 30 mm Hg and bicarbonate level of 24 mEq/L. B. 30 mm Hg and bicarbonate level of 30 mEq/L. C. 50 mm Hg and bicarbonate level of 20 mEq/L. D. 50 mm Hg and bicarbonate level of 30 mEq/L.
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D. 50 mm Hg and bicarbonate level of 30 mEq/L. If compensation is present, carbon dioxide and bicarbonate are abnormal (or nearly so) in opposite directions (e.g., one is acidotic and the other alkalotic).
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2. A patient admitted to the emergency department with tension pneumothorax and mediastinal shift following an automobile crash is most likely to exhibit A. bradycardia. B. severe hypotension. C. mediastinal flutter. D. a sucking chest wound.
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B. severe hypotension. Mediastinal shift may cause compression of the lung in the direction of the shift and compression, traction, torsion, or kinking of the great vessels. Blood return to the heart is dangerously impaired and causes a subsequent decrease in cardiac output and blood pressure. Tachycardia is a clinical manifestation of tension pneumothorax. An uncovered opened pneumothorax is associated with a sucking chest wound and mediastinal flutter.
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3. In preparing the preoperative teaching plan for a patient who is to undergo a total laryngectomy, a nurse should give highest priority to the A. tracheostomy being in place for 2 to 3 days. B. patient's not being able to speak normally again. C. insertion of a gastrostomy feeding tube during surgery. D. patient's not being able to perform deep-breathing exercises.
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B. patient's not being able to speak normally again. Patients who have a total laryngectomy have a permanent tracheostomy and will need to learn how to speak using alternative methods, such as an artificial larynx. The tracheostomy will be permanent to allow normal breathing patterns and air exchange. After surgery, the patient's nutrition is supplemented with enteral feedings, and when the patient can swallow secretions, oral feedings can begin. Deep-breathing exercises should be performed with the patient at least every 2 hours to prevent further pulmonary complications.
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4. After a posterior nasal pack is inserted by a physician, the patient is very anxious and states, "I don't feel like I'm breathing right." The immediate intervention the nurse should initiate is to A. monitor ABGs. B. reassure the patient that this is normal discomfort. C. cut the pack strings and pull the packing out with a hemostat. D. direct a flashlight into the patient's mouth and inspect the oral cavity.
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D. direct a flashlight into the patient's mouth and inspect the oral cavity. The nurse should inspect the oral cavity for the presence of blood, soft palate necrosis, and proper placement of the posterior plug. If the posterior plug is visible, the physician should be notified for readjustment of the packing. Reassurance, cutting the strings, and ABGs are not top priority interventions. The nurse needs further data before intervening.
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5. A nurse is performing assessment for a patient diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect to observe? A. Nonproductive cough B. Prolonged inspiration C. Vesicular breath sounds D. Increased anterior-posterior chest diameter
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D. Increased anterior-posterior chest diameter An increased anterior-posterior diameter is a compensatory mechanism experienced by patients with COPD and is caused by air-trapping. Patients with COPD have a productive cough, often expectorating copious amounts of sputum. Because of air-trapping, patients with COPD experience a prolonged expiration because the rate of gas on exhalation takes longer to escape. Chest auscultation for patients with COPD often reveals wheezing, crackles, and other adventitious breath sounds.
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6. A nurse is working on a respiratory care unit where many of the patients are affected by asthma. Which of the following actions by the nurse would most likely increase respiratory difficulty for the patients? A. Wearing perfume to work B. Encouraging patients to ambulate daily C. Allowing the patients to eat green leafy vegetables D. Withholding antibiotic therapy until cultures are obtained
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A. Wearing perfume to work People with asthma should avoid extrinsic allergens and irritants (e.g., dust, pollen, smoke, certain foods, colognes and perfumes, certain types of medications) because their airways become inflamed, producing shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing. Many green leafy vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins, which incorporate healthy lifestyle patterns into the patients' daily living routines. Routine exercise is a part of a prudent lifestyle, and for patients with asthma the physical and psychosocial effects of ambulation can incorporate feelings of well-being, strength, and enhancement of physical endurance. Antibiotic therapy is always initiated after cultures are obtained so that the sensitivity to the organism can be readily identified.
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7. The most appropriate position to assist a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is having difficulty breathing would be a A. high Fowler's position without a pillow behind the head. B. semi-Fowler's position with a single pillow behind the head. C. right side-lying position with the head of the bed at 45 degrees' elevation. D. sitting upright and forward position with arms supported on an over-the-bed table.
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D. sitting upright and forward position with arms supported on an over-the-bed table.Sitting upright and leaning forward with arms supported on an over-the-bed table would be of most help to this patient, because it allows for expansion of the thoracic cage in all four directions (front, back, and two sides).
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8. A person complains of fatigue and malaise and has a slight temperature elevation for 2 days before symptoms of influenza (fever, chest congestion, and productive cough) become noticeable. During the time immediately before the illness is diagnosed, the patient A. could avoid contracting the disease if treatment is begun with antibiotics. B. is unable to spread the disease because it is still in the incubation period. C. is in the prodromal stage and is highly contagious and able to spread the disease. D. has a nosocomial infection, which affects approximately two million individuals a year.
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C. is in the prodromal stage and is highly contagious and able to spread the disease. The prodromal stage is a short period of time (hours to several days) immediately preceding the onset of an illness during which the patient is very contagious. Antibiotics are not effective against viral illnesses. The incubation period is the time from entry of the organism to the onset of symptoms and, in some viral illnesses, may be contagious. Nosocomial infections are those acquired in a hospital, and this scenario does not suggest the source of the infection.
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9. In older adults, infection after exposure to respiratory illness is most likely to A. result in similar rates of infection as in the younger adult. B. be easily prevented with the use of antibiotics after being exposed. C. result in serious lower respiratory infection related to weakened respiratory muscles and fewer cilia. D. be less serious because the older adult has less contact with younger children who are most likely to carry serious infections.
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C. result in serious lower respiratory infection related to weakened respiratory muscles and fewer cilia. Changes in the older adult respiratory system make older adults more susceptible to infections that can be very serious and life threatening. Use of antibiotics to "prevent" lung infections is not recommended and is ineffective for viral infections.
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10. If a nurse is caring for an 80-year-old patient with a temperature of 100.4° F, crackles at the right lung base, pain with deep inspiration, and dyspnea, which of the following orders is the nurse's priority? A. Sputum specimen for culture and sensitivity B. Codeine 15 mg orally every 6 hours as needed C. Incentive spirometer every 2 hours while awake D. Amoxicillin (Amoxil) 500 mg orally 4 times a day
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A. Sputum specimen for culture and sensitivity The patient presents with signs of a respiratory infection. To initiate the most effective therapy, the health care prescriber must know the pathogen causing the infection. Therefore, the sputum specimen is the nurse's priority. If the antibiotic is administered before the specimen is obtained, the results of the culture might not be as accurate and could impair the effectiveness of therapy. After the specimen is obtained, the nurse can administer codeine for coughing and begin the incentive spirometry to mobilize secretions and improve the patient's ability to expectorate the secretions.
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11. When assessing a patient's respiratory status, which of the following nonrespiratory data are most important for the nurse to obtain? A. Height and weight B. Neck circumference C. Occupation and hobbies D. Usual daily fluid intake
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C. Occupation and hobbiesMany respiratory problems occur as a result of chronic exposure to inhalation irritants. Common occupational sources of inhalation irritants include mines, granaries, farms, lawn care companies, paint, plastics and rubber manufacture, and building remodeling. Hobbies associated with inhalation irritants include woodworking, metal finishing, furniture refinishing, painting, and ceramics. Daily fluids, height, and weight are more related to respiratory problems secondary to cardiac issues.
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12. If a nurse is assessing a patient whose recent blood gas determination indicated a pH of 7.32 and respirations are measured at 32 breaths/min, which of the following is the most appropriate nursing assessment? A. The rapid breathing is causing the low pH. B. The nurse should sedate the patient to slow down respirations. C. The rapid breathing is an attempt to compensate for the low pH. D. The nurse should give the patient a paper bag to breathe into to correct the low pH.
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C. The rapid breathing is an attempt to compensate for the low pH. The respiratory system influences pH (acidity) through control of carbon dioxide exhalation. Thus, rapid breathing increases the pH. Breathing into a paper bag aids a patient who is hyperventilating; in respiratory alkalosis, it aids in lowering the pH. The use of sedation can cause respiratory depression and hypoventilation, resulting in an even lower pH.
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13. If a patient with an uncuffed tracheostomy tube coughs violently during suctioning and dislodges the tracheostomy tube, a nurse should first A. call the physician. B. attempt to reinsert the tracheostomy tube. C. position the patient in a lateral position with the neck extended. D. cover the stoma with a sterile dressing and ventilate the patient with a manual bag-mask until the physician arrives.
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B. attempt to reinsert the tracheostomy tube.Retention sutures may be grasped (if present) and the tracheostomy opening spread, or a hemostat may be used to spread the opening. The obturator is inserted into the replacement tube (one size smaller than the original tube), lubricated with saline solution, and inserted into the stoma at a 45-degree angle to the neck. If the attempt is successful, the obturator tube should immediately be removed.
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14. Upon entering the room of a patient who has just returned from surgery for total laryngectomy and radical neck dissection, a nurse should recognize a need for intervention when finding A. a gastrostomy tube that is clamped. B. the patient coughing blood-tinged secretions from the tracheostomy. C. the patient positioned in a lateral position with the head of the bed flat. D. 200 ml of serosanguineous drainage in the patient's portable drainage device.
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C. the patient positioned in a lateral position with the head of the bed flat. After total laryngectomy and radical neck dissection, a patient should be placed in a semi-Fowler's position to decrease edema and limit tension on the suture line.
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15. When administering oxygen to a patient with COPD with the potential for carbon dioxide narcosis, the nurse should A. never administer oxygen at a rate of more than 2 L/min. B. monitor the patient's use of oxygen to detect oxygen dependency. C. monitor the patient for symptoms of oxygen toxicity, such as paresthesias. D. use ABGs as a guide to determine what FIO2 level meets the patient's needs.
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D. use ABGs as a guide to determine what FIO2 level meets the patient's needs. It is critical to start oxygen at low flow rates and then use ABGs as a guide to determine what FIO2 level is sufficient and can be tolerated.
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16. To ensure the correct amount of oxygen delivery for a patient receiving 35% oxygen via a Venturi mask, it is most important that the nurse A. keep the air-entrainment ports clean and unobstructed. B. apply an adaptor to increase humidification of the oxygen. C. drain moisture condensation from the oxygen tubing every hour. D. keep the flow rate high enough to keep the bag from collapsing during inspiration.
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A. keep the air-entrainment ports clean and unobstructed. Oxygen is delivered to a small jet in the center of a wide-based cone. Air is entrained (pulled through) openings in the cone as oxygen flows through the small jet. The degree of restriction or narrowness of the jet determines the amount of entrainment and the dilution of pure oxygen with room air and thus the concentration of oxygen. Although applying an adaptor can increase the humidification with the Venturi mask, it is not the best answer, because an open port is essential to proper functioning. Draining moisture condensation from the oxygen tubing is performed as often as needed, not on an hourly schedule. A plastic face mask with a reservoir bag needs to have sufficient flow rate to keep the bag inflated.
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17. While caring for a patient with respiratory disease, a nurse observes that the oxygen saturation drops from 94% to 85% when the patient ambulates. The nurse should determine that A. supplemental oxygen should be used when the patient exercises. B. ABG determinations should be done to verify the oxygen saturation reading. C. this finding is a normal response to activity and that the patient should continue to be monitored. D. the oximetry probe should be moved from the finger to the earlobe for an accurate oxygen saturation measurement during activity.
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A. supplemental oxygen should be used when the patient exercises.An oxygen saturation lower than 90% indicates inadequate oxygenation. If the drop is related to activity of some type, supplemental oxygen is indicated.
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18. A nurse establishes the presence of a tension pneumothorax when assessment findings reveal a(n) A. absence of lung sounds on the affected side. B. inability to auscultate tracheal breath sounds. C. deviation of the trachea toward the side opposite the pneumothorax. D. shift of the point of maximal impulse (PMI) to the left, with bounding pulses.
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C. deviation of the trachea toward the side opposite the pneumothorax. Tension pneumothorax is caused by rapid accumulation of air in the pleural space, causing severely high intrapleural pressure. This results in collapse of the lung, and the mediastinum shifts toward the unaffected side, which is subsequently compressed.
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19. Which of the following statements made by a nurse would indicate proper teaching principles regarding feeding and tracheostomies? A. "Follow each spoon of food consumed with a drink of fluid." B. "Thin your foods to a liquid consistency whenever possible." C. "Tilt your chin forward toward the chest when swallowing your food." D. "Make sure your cuff is overinflated before eating if you have swallowing problems."
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C. "Tilt your chin forward toward the chest when swallowing your food." A nurse should instruct a patient to tilt the chin toward the chest, which will close the glottis and allow food to enter the normal passageway. Ideally, foods should be of a thick consistency to enable effective swallowing and reduce the risk of aspiration. Overinflation of the cuff causes swallowing difficulties. Fluids should be consumed in small amounts after swallowing to prevent the risk of aspiration.
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20. If a patient states, "It's hard for me to breathe and I feel short-winded all the time," what is the most appropriate terminology to be applied in documenting this assessment by a nurse? A. Apnea B. Dyspnea C. Tachypnea D. Respiratory fatigue
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B. Dyspnea Dyspnea is a subjective description reflective of the patient's statement indicating difficulty in breathing. Apnea refers to absence of breath or breathing. Tachypnea refers to an increased rate of breathing, usually greater than 20 breaths per minute. Respiratory fatigue is subjective and usually refers to the patient exhibiting signs and symptoms associated with a comprehensive respiratory assessment including laborious breathing, use of accessory muscles, and slowing of respirations.
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21. To prevent atelectasis in an 82-year-old patient with a hip fracture, a nurse should A. supply oxygen. B. suction the upper airway. C. ambulate the patient frequently. D. assist the patient with aggressive coughing and deep breathing.
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D. assist the patient with aggressive coughing and deep breathing. Decreased mobility after surgery in older adults creates the possibility of fluid buildup and retention in lung tissue. One of the primary goals of nursing intervention is to prevent atelectasis in a high-risk patient. Aggressive coughing and deep breathing can prevent atelectasis in the postoperative patient.
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22. Respiratory acidosis is at highest risk in a patient with A. hypokalemia. B. pulmonary fibrosis. C. salicylate overdose. D. COPD.
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D. COPD. Chronic respiratory acidosis is most commonly caused by COPD. Pulmonary fibrosis, hypokalemia, and salicylate overdose do not predispose a patient to respiratory acidosis. Hypokalemia can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias. Salicylate overdose results in central nervous system changes, and pulmonary fibrosis can result in respiratory arrest.
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40. Select all that apply. Atelectasis can be caused by A. long-term smoking. B. inadequate surfactant. C. localized airway obstruction. D. an increase in lung expansion. E. an increase in elastic recoil.
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BCE The collapse of lung tissue has several causes, including reduced lung expansion, localized airway obstruction, inadequate surfactant, and an increase in elastic recoil. Smoking, although harmful, does not in itself cause atelectasis.
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23. A patient is having inspiratory stridor (crowing respiration) and the nurse suspects he is experiencing a laryngospasm. Which of the following would be most appropriate to implement for a patient experiencing a laryngospasm? A. Administer 100% oxygen. B. Position the patient in high Fowler's position. C. Insert a 16-gauge (large-bore) IV needle. D. Activate the emergency response team (code blue team) to the patient's room.
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A. Administer 100% oxygen.A nurse should immediately administer 100% oxygen to the patient until the airway is fully reestablished, the larynx relaxes, and the spasms stop. Activating the emergency response team is not an immediate nursing action at this time because the nurse can administer the oxygen without the assistance of others. Positioning the patient in high Fowler's will not address the patient's need for immediate reoxygenation because of the patient's compromised respiratory state. Insertion of an IV device is not the first priority response but should be implemented after the nurse has assessed that the airway is stable.
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24. A nurse is preparing to establish oxygen therapy for a patient with COPD, and the physician's prescription reads "oxygen per nasal cannula at 5 L per minute." Which of the following actions should the nurse take? A. Administer the oxygen as prescribed. B. Call the physician and question the correct flow rate of the oxygen. C. Establish the oxygen as prescribed and obtain an ABG. D. Change the delivery device from a nasal cannula to a simple oxygen mask.
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B. Call the physician and question the correct flow rate of the oxygen. The nurse should call the physician immediately and question the flow rate for delivery of the oxygen before implementation. Oxygen is used cautiously in patients with COPD because of longstanding hypoxemia serving as the respiratory drive mechanism. If high levels of oxygen are administered, the respiratory drive can be obliterated. Changing the device to a simple oxygen mask may alter the oxygen concentration being delivered to the patient and will further enhance the obliteration of the patient's respiratory drive. Obtaining an ABG sample is not a priority at this time, and the action does not address the validity of the prescribed oxygen dosing for the patient.
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25. A 75-year-old obese patient who is snoring loudly and having periods of apnea several times each night is most likely experiencing A. narcolepsy. B. sleep apnea. C. sleep deprivation. D. paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea.
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B. sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is most common in obese patients. Typical symptoms include snoring and periods of apnea. Narcolepsy is when a patient falls asleep unexpectedly. Sleep deprivation could result from sleep apnea. Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea occurs when a patient has shortness of breath during the night.
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26. Which of the following conditions is manifested by unexplained shortness of breath and a high mortality rate? A. Bleeding ulcer B. Transient ischemia C. Pulmonary embolism D. MI
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C. Pulmonary embolism A high mortality rate is associated with a pulmonary embolism. A pulmonary embolism is an obstruction of the pulmonary artery caused by an embolus. It presents with hypoxia, anxiety, restlessness, and shortness of breath. Bleeding ulcers, MI, and transient ischemia are not associated with such a high mortality rate.
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27. A patient with COPD is receiving oxygen at 2 L/min. While in the supine position for a bath, the patient complains of shortness of breath. What is the most appropriate first nursing action? A. Increase the flow of oxygen. B. Perform tracheal suctioning. C. Report this to the physician. D. Assist the patient to Fowler's position.
answer
D. Assist the patient to Fowler's position. Breathing is easier in Fowler's position because it permits greater expansion of the chest cavity. If repositioning does not improve the situation, then oxygenation and physician reporting might be appropriate. The patient would not benefit from tracheal suctioning.
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28. To find the infection site associated with acute lymphangitis, the nurse should look _____ to the inflammation. A. distal B. anterior C. proximal D. contralateral
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A. distal The nurse should assess distal to swelling to locate the initial site of infection. Examining proximal, contralateral, or anterior to the inflammation does not describe swelling associated with infection.
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29. Which of the following instructions are most appropriate in the home management of a patient who has undergone surgery for oral cancer? A. "You should drink plenty of fluids and eat foods you enjoy." B. "It is normal to have some leakage of saliva from the suture line." C. "Lying in a prone position helps decrease swelling at the suture line." D. "You should avoid foods high in protein while your suture line is healing."
answer
A. "You should drink plenty of fluids and eat foods you enjoy." For patients who have undergone treatment for head and neck cancers, maintaining adequate nutrition is a challenge. The nurse encourages the patient to increase fluids to prevent dehydration and liquefy secretions. These patients are more likely to eat foods that they enjoy and can tolerate.
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30. Which of the following conditions or factors in a 64-year-old patient diagnosed with head and neck cancer most likely contributed to this health problem? A. Patient's hobby is oil painting. B. Patient's father also had head and neck cancer. C. Patient uses chewing tobacco and drinks beer daily. D. Patient quit school at age 16 and has worked in a butcher shop for more than 40 years.
answer
C. Patient uses chewing tobacco and drinks beer daily. Many environmental risk factors contribute to the development of head and neck cancer, although the actual cause is unknown. There does not appear to be a genetic predisposition to this type of cancer. The two most important risk factors are tobacco and alcohol use, especially in combination. Other risk factors include chewing tobacco, pipe smoking, marijuana use, voice abuse, chronic laryngitis, exposure to industrial chemicals or hardwood dust, and poor oral hygiene.
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31. A patient's ABGs include a PaO2 of 88 mm Hg and a PaCO2 of 38 mm Hg and mixed venous blood gases include a PvO2 of 40 mm Hg and PvCO2 of 46 mm Hg. These findings indicate that the patient has A. impaired cardiac output. B. unstable hemodynamics. C. inadequate delivery of oxygen to the tissues. D. normal capillary oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange.
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D. normal capillary oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange. Normal venous blood gas values reflect the normal uptake of oxygen from arterial blood and the release of carbon dioxide from cells into the blood, resulting in a much lower PaO2 and an increased PaCO2. The pH is also decreased in mixed venous blood gases because of the higher PvCO2. Normal mixed venous blood gases also have much lower PvO2 and SvO2 than arterial blood bases. Mixed venous blood gases are used when patients are hemodynamically unstable to evaluate the amount of oxygen delivered to the tissue and the amount of oxygen consumed by the tissues.
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32. An excess of carbon dioxide in the blood causes an increased respiratory rate and volume because CO2 A. displaces oxygen on hemoglobin, leading to a decreased PaO2. B. causes an increase in the amount of hydrogen ions available in the body. C. combines with water to form carbonic acid, lowering the pH of cerebrospinal fluid. D. directly stimulates chemoreceptors in the medulla to increase respiratory rate and volume.
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C. combines with water to form carbonic acid, lowering the pH of cerebrospinal fluid. A combination of excess CO2 and H2O results in carbonic acid, which lowers the pH of the cerebrospinal fluid and stimulates an increase in the respiratory rate. Peripheral chemoreceptors in the carotid and aortic bodies also respond to increases in PaCO2 to stimulate the respiratory center. Excess CO2 does not increase the amount of hydrogen ions available in the body but does combine with the hydrogen of water to form an acid.
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33. A patient with an acute pharyngitis is seen at the clinic with fever and severe throat pain that affects swallowing. On inspection the throat is reddened and edematous with patchy yellow exudates. The nurse anticipates that collaborative management will include A. treatment with antibiotics. B. treatment with antifungal agents. C. a throat culture or rapid strep antigen test. D. treatment with medication only if the pharyngitis does not resolve in 3 to 4 days.
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C. a throat culture or rapid strep antigen test. Although inadequately treated β-hemolytic streptococcal infections may lead to rheumatic heart disease or glomerulonephritis, antibiotic treatment is not recommended until strep infections are definitely diagnosed with culture or antigen tests. The manifestations of viral and bacterial infections are similar, and appearance is not diagnostic except when candidiasis is present.
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34. Following a supraglottic laryngectomy, the patient is taught how to use the supraglottic swallow to minimize the risk of aspiration. In teaching the patient about this technique, the nurse instructs the patient to A. perform Valsalva maneuver immediately after swallowing. B. breathe between each Valsalva maneuver and cough sequence. C. cough after swallowing to remove food from the top of the vocal cords. D. practice swallowing thin, watery fluids before attempting to swallow solid foods.
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C. cough after swallowing to remove food from the top of the vocal cords. A supraglottic laryngectomy involves removal of the epiglottis and false vocal cords, and the removal of the epiglottis allows food to enter the trachea. Supraglottic swallowing requires performance of the Valsalva maneuver before placing food in the mouth and swallowing. The patient then coughs to remove food from the top of the vocal cords, swallows again, and then breathes after the food has been removed from the vocal cords.
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35. A patient is admitted to the hospital with fever, chills, a productive cough with rusty sputum, and pleuritic chest pain. Pneumococcal pneumonia is suspected. An appropriate nursing diagnosis for the patient based on the patient's manifestations is A. hyperthermia related to acute infectious process. B. chronic pain related to ineffective pain management. C. risk for injury related to disorientation and confusion. D. ineffective airway clearance related to retained secretions.
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A. hyperthermia related to acute infectious process. The patient with pneumococcal pneumonia is acutely ill with fever and the systemic manifestations of fever, such as chills, thirst, headache, and malaise. Interventions that monitor temperature and aid in lowering body temperature are appropriate. Ineffective airway clearance would be manifested by adventitious breath sounds and difficulty producing secretions. Disorientation and confusion are not noted in this patient and are not typical unless the patient is very hypoxemic. Pleuritic pain is an acute pain that is due to inflammation of the pleura.
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36. The resurgence in TB resulting from the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is primarily the result of A. a lack of effective means to diagnose TB. B. poor compliance with drug therapy in patients with TB. C. the increased population of immunosuppressed individuals with AIDS. D. indiscriminate use of antitubercular drugs in treatment of other infections.
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B. poor compliance with drug therapy in patients with TB. Drug-resistant strains of TB have developed because TB patients' compliance to drug therapy has been poor and there has been general decreased vigilance in monitoring and follow-up of TB treatment. Antitubercular drugs are almost exclusively used for TB infections. TB can be effectively diagnosed with sputum cultures. The incidence of TB is at epidemic proportions in patients with HIV, but this does not account for drug-resistant strains of TB.
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37. The chronic inflammation of the bronchi characteristic of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) results in A. collapse of small bronchioles on expiration. B. permanent, abnormal dilation of the bronchi. C. hyperplasia of mucus-secreting cells and bronchial edema. D. destruction of the elastic and muscular structures of the bronchial wall.
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C. hyperplasia of mucus-secreting cells and bronchial edema. Chronic bronchitis is characterized by chronic inflammation of the bronchial lining, with edema and increased mucus production. Collapse of small bronchioles on expiration is common in emphysema, and abnormal dilation of the bronchi because of destruction of the elastic and muscular structures is characteristic of bronchiectasis.
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38. In teaching the patient with COPD about the need for physical exercise, the nurse informs the patient that A. all patients with COPD should be able to increase walking gradually up to 20 min/day. B. a bronchodilator inhaler should be used to relieve exercise-induced dyspnea immediately after exercise. C. shortness of breath is expected during exercise but should return to baseline within 5 minutes after the exercise. D. monitoring the heart rate before and after exercise is the best way to determine how much exercise can be tolerated.
answer
C. shortness of breath is expected during exercise but should return to baseline within 5 minutes after the exercise.Shortness of breath usually increases during exercise, but the activity is not being overdone if breathing returns to baseline within 5 minutes after stopping. Bronchodilators can be administered 10 minutes before exercise but should not be administered for at least 5 minutes after activity to allow recovery. Patients are encouraged to walk 15 to 20 minutes a day with gradual increases, but actual patterns will depend on patient tolerance. Dyspnea most frequently limits exercise and is a better indication of exercise tolerance than is heart rate in the patient with COPD.
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39. Select all that apply. Which of the following are clinical manifestations of tension pneumothorax? A. Midline trachea B. Severe hypertension C. Progressive cyanosis D. A loud bruit on affected side E. Asymmetrical chest wall movement F. Subcutaneous emphysema in the neck
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C,E, F The indicators of tension pneumothorax are asymmetrical chest wall movement, severe hypotension, subcutaneous emphysema in the neck and upper chest, and progressive cyanosis.
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41. Select all that apply. During initial assessment, a nurse should record which of the following manifestations of respiratory distress? A. Tachypnea B. Nasal flaring C. Thready pulse D. Panting or grunting E. Use of intercostal muscles F. An inspiratory-to-expiratory ratio of 1:2
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AD Manifestations of respiratory distress include tachypnea, grunting and panting on respiration, central cyanosis, use of accessory muscles, and flaring nares.
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42. Select all that apply. Which of the following nursing actions can help clear tracheobronchial secretions in a patient with cystic fibrosis? A. Postural drainage B. Suppressing the cough C. Ensuring adequate hydration D. Administering mucolytic aerosols E. Encouraging the patient to lie flat F. Administering water-soluble vitamins
answer
ACD Postural drainage, adequate hydration, and administration of mucolytic aerosols all encourage coughing and the clearing of secretions. A patient with cystic fibrosis will be more comfortable sitting upright.
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43. Select all that apply. Which of the following is included in a comprehensive respiratory assessment? A. Pulse oximetry B. Chest auscultation C. Apical radial pulse D. Nail-bed assessment E. Evaluation of respiratory effort F. Rate and character of respirations
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ABDEF The total assessment of the respiratory system includes pulse oximetry; auscultation; skin and nail-bed assessment for the detection of cyanosis; and rate, character, and degree of effort of respirations. The apical radial pulse is a cardiac assessment.
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1. When assessing a patient's nutritional-metabolic pattern related to hematologic health, the nurse would: A. Inspect the skin for petechiae. B. Ask the patient about joint pain. C. Assess for vitamin C deficiency. D. Determine if the patient can perform ADLs.
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A. Inspect the skin for petechiae. Any changes in the skin's texture or color should be explored when assessing the patient's nutritional-metabolic pattern related to hematologic health. The presences of petechiae or ecchymotic areas could be indicative of hematologic deficiencies related to poor nutritional intake or related causes.
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2. When assessing lab values on a patient admitted with septicemia, the nurse would expect to find: A. Increased platelets B. Decreased red blood cells C. Decreased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) D. Increased bands in the WBC differential (shift to the left)
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D. Increased bands in the WBC differential (shift to the left) When infections are severe, such as in septicemia, more granulocytes are released from the bone marrow as a compensatory mechanism. To meet the increased demand, many young, immature polymorphonuclear neutrophils (bands) are released into circulation. WBCs are usually reported in order of maturity, with the less mature forms on the left side of a written report. Hence, the term "shift to the left" is used to denote an increase in the number of bands.
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3. When caring for a patient with metastatic cancer, the nurse notes a hemoglobin level of 8.7 g/dl and hematocrit of 26%. The nurse would place highest priority on initiating interventions that will reduce which of the following? A. Fatigue B. Thirst C. Headache D. Abdominal pain
answer
A. Fatigue The patient with a low hemoglobin and hematocrit (normal values approximately 13.5% to 17% and 40% to 54%, respectively) is anemic and would be most likely to experience fatigue. This symptom develops because of the lowered oxygen-carrying capacity that leads to reduced tissue oxygenation to carry out cellular functions.
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4. The nurse is caring for a patient who is to receive a transfusion of two units of packed red blood cells. After obtaining the first unit from the blood bank, the nurse would ask which of the following health team members in the nurses' station to assist in checking the unit before administration? A. Unit secretary B. Another registered nurse C. A physician's assistant D. A phlebotomist
answer
B. Another registered nurseBefore hanging a transfusion, the registered nurse must check the unit with another RN or with a licensed practical (vocational) nurse, depending on agency policy.
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5. Before starting a transfusion of packed red blood cells for an anemic patient, the nurse would arrange for a peer to monitor his or her other assigned patients for how many minutes when the nurse begins the transfusion? A. 60 B. 5 C. 30 D. 15
answer
D. 15 As part of standard procedure, the nurse remains with the patient for the first 15 minutes after hanging a blood transfusion. Patients who are likely to have a transfusion reaction will more often exhibit signs within the first 15 minutes that the blood is infusing.
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6. When preparing to administer an ordered blood transfusion, the nurse selects which of the following intravenous solutions to use when priming the blood tubing? A. 5% dextrose in water B. Lactated Ringer's C. 0.9% sodium chloride D. 0.45% sodium chloride
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C. 0.9% sodium chloride The blood set should be primed before the transfusion with 0.9% sodium chloride, also known as normal saline. It is also used to flush the blood tubing after the infusion is complete to ensure the patient receives blood that is left in the tubing when the bag is empty.
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7. The nurse notes a physician's order written at 10:00 AM for 2 units of packed red blood cells to be administered to a patient who is anemic secondary to chronic blood loss. If the transfusion is picked up at 11:30, the nurse should plan to hang the unit no later than which of the following times? A. 11:45 AM B. 12:00 noon C. 12:30 PM D. 3:30 PM
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B. 12:00 noon The nurse must hang the unit of packed red blood cells within 30 minutes of signing them out from the blood bank
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8. The nurse receives a physician's order to transfuse fresh frozen plasma to a patient suffering from an acute blood loss. Which of the following procedures is most appropriate for infusing this blood product? A. Hand the fresh frozen plasma as a piggyback to a new bag of primary IV solution without KCl. B. Infuse the fresh frozen plasma as rapidly as the patient will tolerate. C. Hang the fresh frozen plasma as a piggyback to the primary IV solution. D. Infuse the fresh frozen plasma as a piggyback to a primary solution of normal saline.
answer
B. Infuse the fresh frozen plasma as rapidly as the patient will tolerate. The fresh frozen plasma should be administered as rapidly as possible and should be used within 2 hours of thawing. Fresh frozen plasma is infused using any straight-line infusion set. Any existing IV should be interrupted while the fresh frozen plasma is infused, unless a second IV line has been started for the transfusion.
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9. Before beginning a transfusion of RBCs, which of the following actions by the nurse would be of highest priority to avoid an error during this procedure? A. Check the identifying information on the unit of blood against the patient's ID bracelet. B. Select new primary IV tubing primed with lactated Ringer's solution to use for the transfusion. C. Add the blood transfusion as a secondary line to the existing IV and used the IV controller to maintain correct flow. D. Remain with the patient for 60 minutes after beginning the transfusion to watch for signs of a transfusion reaction. The patient's identifying information (name, date of birth, medical record number) on the identification bracelet should exactly match the information on the blood bank tag that has been placed on the unit of blood. If any information does not match, the transfusions should not be hung because of possible error and risk to the patient.
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A. The patient's identifying information (name, date of birth, medical record number) on the identification bracelet should exactly match the information on the blood bank tag that has been placed on the unit of blood. If any information does not match, the transfusions should not be hung because of possible error and risk to the patient.
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10. The blood bank notifies the nurse that the two units of blood ordered for an anemic patient are ready for pick up. The nurse should take which of the following actions to prevent an adverse effect during this procedure? A. Immediately pick up both units of blood from the blood bank. B. Regulate the flow rate so that each unit takes at least 4 hours to transfuse. C. Set up the Y-tubing of the blood set with dextrose in water as the flush solution. D. Infuse the blood slowly for the first 15 minutes of the transfusion.
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D. Infuse the blood slowly for the first 15 minutes of the transfusion. Because a transfusion reaction is more likely to occur at the beginning of a transfusion, the nurse should initially infuse the blood at a rate no faster than 2 ml/min and remain with the patient for the first 15 minutes after hanging a unit of blood.
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1. A nurse is reviewing the hematologic test results for a patient in whom the hematocrit (Hct) is reported at a reading of 30%. Based on this result, the nurse should interpret that the patient A. is susceptible to bleeding disorders. B. has fewer red blood cells than normal. C. is experiencing an inflammatory response. D. is experiencing an acute hemolytic crisis.
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B. has fewer red blood cells than normal.The Hct is the measure of the volume of red blood cells in whole blood expressed as a percentage. This test is useful in the diagnosis of anemia, polycythemia, and abnormal hydration states. Patients who are susceptible to bleeding disorders likely will have a low platelet count. The inflammatory response may best be evaluated by examination of results that include the white blood cell count with differential analysis. Acute hemolytic crisis develops in patients receiving blood components in which incompatibility occurs or in patients with bleeding disorders or conditions that promote cellular damage, such as damage associated with shock.
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2. Which of the following is a factor significant in the development of anemia in men? A. Condom use B. Large hemorrhoids C. A diet high in cholesterol D. Smoking one pack of cigarettes daily
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B. Large hemorrhoids Gastrointestinal (GI) tract bleeding is a common etiologic factor in men and may result from peptic ulcers, hiatal hernia, gastritis, cancer, hemorrhoids, diverticula, ulcerative colitis, or salicylate poisoning.
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3. Following a patient's bone marrow aspiration, which of the following nursing interventions should a nurse anticipate? A. Application of firm pressure to the site B. Positioning the patient in a prone position C. Positioning the patient in a supine position D. Application of a warm, moist compress to the site
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A. Application of firm pressure to the site After a bone marrow aspiration procedure, a nurse should apply pressure to the aspiration site until bleeding stops. Application of a warm, moist compress will not alter the potential for bleeding. Positioning the patient to assume a supine or prone position also will not address the need to control bleeding from the aspiration site.
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4. The nurse is teaching a patient who is to undergo bone marrow aspiration. Which of the following statements made by the nurse would indicate correct instruction regarding the site for the aspiration procedure? A. "The health care provider will perform the aspiration by needle to the femur." B. "The health care provider will perform the aspiration by needle to the scapula." C. "The health care provider will perform the aspiration by needle to the antecubital fossa." D. "The health care provider will perform the aspiration by needle to the posterior iliac crest."
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D. "The health care provider will perform the aspiration by needle to the posterior iliac crest." Bone marrow samples are commonly taken from the posterior iliac crest or, as an alternative, the sternum may be aspirated. These sites provide relative ease in accessing the bone marrow via the biopsy needle. The antecubital fossa, femur, and scapula do not allow access to bone marrow while also providing reduced risk of harm to the patient.
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5. Absorption of vitamin B12 may be decreased in older adults because of decreased A. intestinal motility. B. production of bile by the liver. C. production of intrinsic factor by the stomach. D. synthesis of cobalamin (vitamin B12) by intestinal bacteria.
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C. production of intrinsic factor by the stomach. Older persons are at risk for deficiency of cobalamin (pernicious anemia) because of a naturally occurring reduction of the intrinsic factor by the stomach mucosa. Absorption of cobalamin relies on intrinsic factor. Both must be present for absorption. Megaloblastic anemia is related to folate dysfunction. Intestinal motility (peristalsis) is the motion that moves food down the GI tract. The rhythmic contractions of muscles cause wave-like motions. Lack of peristalsis is called "paralytic ileus." Bile is produced in the liver, is stored and concentrated in the gallbladder, and is released into the duodenum when fat is eaten. Bile emulsifies fats and prepares them for enzyme digestion in order for the nutrient to be absorbed into lymph and eventually into blood vessels to the liver. Vitamin K (the blood-clotting vitamin) is synthesized by intestinal bacteria.
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6. What type of anemia is associated with folate deficiency? A. Microcytic B. Pernicious C. Megaloblastic D. Iron deficiency
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C. Megaloblastic Megaloblastic anemia is nutritional anemia; large immature red blood cells with a decreased oxygen-carrying capacity can occur as a result of impaired DNA synthesis. Folic acid is used in the synthesis of DNA and helps convert B12 to coenzyme form. Folic acid is needed for growth and development of red blood cells. Microcytic anemia is anemia with abnormally small erythrocytes (red blood cells) in Hb. This anemia is associated with vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) deficiency. Pernicious anemia is caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12. Iron-deficiency anemia results from loss of blood or deficient intake of iron foods or disease states in which the body does not absorb or utilize iron as it should.
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7. During care of a patient with multiple myeloma, an important nursing intervention is A. limiting activity to prevent pathologic fractures. B. assessing for changes in size and characteristics of lymph nodes. C. maintaining a fluid intake of 3 to 4 L/day to dilute calcium load. D. administering narcotic analgesics continuously to control bone pain.
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C. maintaining a fluid intake of 3 to 4 L/day to dilute calcium load. Adequate hydration must be maintained to minimize problems from hypercalcemia. The goal of a urinary output of 1.5 to 2 L/day requires an intake of 3 to 4 L/day.
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8. While obtaining the admission assessment data, which of the following characteristics would a nurse expect a patient with anemia to report? A. Palpitations B. Blurred vision C. Increased appetite D. Feeling of warm flushing sensation
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A. Palpitations Patients experiencing moderate anemia (hemoglobin [Hb] 6 to 10 g/dL) may experience dyspnea (shortness of breath), palpitations, diaphoresis (profound perspiration) with exertion, and chronic fatigue. Blurred vision is associated in patients experiencing profound anemia states. Anorexia is common in patients with severe anemia, as well. Patients with anemia often appear pale and complain of feeling cold because of compensatory vasoconstriction of the subcutaneous capillaries.
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9. If a health care provider is planning to transfuse a patient with a unit of packed red blood cells, which of the following solutions should the health care provider hang with the transfusion? A. 5% dextrose in water B. 0.9% sodium chloride C. 5% dextrose in 0.9% sodium chloride D. 5% dextrose in lactated Ringer's solution
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B. 0.9% sodium chloride The only solution appropriate for administration with whole blood or blood products is 0.9% sodium chloride. The other options are not appropriate for use with blood products.
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10. Anticoagulant therapy is used in the treatment of thromboembolic disease because anticoagulants can A. dissolve the thrombi. B. decrease blood viscosity. C. prevent absorption of vitamin K. D. inhibit the synthesis of clotting factors.
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D. inhibit the synthesis of clotting factors. Anticoagulant therapy is based on the premise that the initiation or extension of thrombi can be prevented by inhibiting the synthesis of clotting factors or by accelerating their inactivation. The anticoagulants heparin and warfarin do not induce thrombolysis but effectively prevent clot extension.
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11. If a patient has pernicious anemia, the nurse should provide information regarding A. frequent bouts of dyspnea. B. risks relative to dehydration. C. deficiency of intrinsic factor. D. lack of any effective treatment for this condition.
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C. deficiency of intrinsic factor. Pernicious anemia is a type of anemia caused by failure of absorption of vitamin B12 (cobalamin). The most common cause is lack of intrinsic factor, a glucoprotein produced by the parietal cells of the gastric lining.
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12. A nurse is providing care to an adult female patient and observes that the Hb laboratory analysis result is 9 g/dl. Based on this finding, the nurse should expect to observe A. dyspnea. B. bradycardia. C. warm, dry skin. D. activity tolerance without complaint of fatigue.
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A. dyspnea.Hb levels are used to determine the severity of anemia. Patients with moderate anemia (Hb 6 to 10 g/dL) may suffer from dyspnea, palpitations, diaphoresis with exertion, and chronic fatigue. Patients who are anemic usually have cool skin related to compensatory mechanism of mild vasoconstriction. Patients who are anemic experience tachycardia because of increased demands placed on the heart to meet overall metabolic requirements. Activity tolerance without complaint is not correct because patients with anemic conditions fatigue readily.
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13. If a patient with arthritis develops iron-deficiency anemia, a nurse should ask about the patient's use of A. alcoholic beverages. B. stool softeners and laxatives. C. caffeinated foods and beverages. D. NSAIDs.
answer
D. NSAIDs. NSAIDs decrease the level of vitamin C, which aids in the absorption of iron. These drugs also compete with folate and vitamin K and may cause gastritis. Excessive alcoholic beverage consumption can cause stomach irritation; alcohol would not be directly related to iron-deficiency anemia unless bleeding ulcers or gastritis were to occur. NSAID consumption, not stool softeners and laxative use, would be suspect for iron-deficiency anemia. Caffeinated foods and beverages can cause gastric irritation and discomfort but are not associated with iron-deficiency anemia.
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14. Which of the following foods is high in iron? A. Citrus fruits B. Milk products C. Yellow vegetables D. Green leafy vegetables
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D. Green leafy vegetables Green leafy vegetables are high in iron. Foods cooked in iron pots and foods such as liver (the richest source), oysters, lean meats, kidney beans, whole wheat bread, kale, spinach, egg yolk, turnip tops, beet greens, carrots, apricots, and raisins are also high in iron.
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15. When reviewing the results of a 83-year-old patient's blood tests, which of the following findings would be of most concern to the nurse? A. Platelets of 150,000/µl B. Serum iron of 50 mcg/dl C. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) of 60 seconds D. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of 35 mm in 1 hour
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C. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) of 60 seconds In aging, the partial thromboplastin time (PTT) is normally decreased, so an abnormally high PTT of 60 seconds is an indication that bleeding could readily occur. Platelets are unaffected by aging, and 150,000 is a normal count. Serum iron levels are decreased and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is significantly increased with aging, as are reflected in these values.
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16. If a patient with blood type O Rh- is given AB Rh- blood, the nurse would expect A. the patient's Rh factor to react with the RBCs of the donor blood. B. no adverse reaction because the patient has no antibodies against the donor blood. C. the anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the patient's blood to hemolyze the donor blood. D. the anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the donor blood to hemolyze the patient's blood.
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C. the anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the patient's blood to hemolyze the donor blood. A patient with O Rh+ blood has no A or B antigens on the red cell but does have anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the blood and has an Rh antigen. AB Rh- blood has both A and B antigens on the red cell but no Rh antigen and no anti-A or anti-B antibodies. If the AB Rh- blood is given to the patient with O Rh+ blood, the antibodies in the patient's blood will react with the antigens in the donor blood, causing hemolysis of the donor cells. There will be no Rh reaction because the donor blood has no Rh antigen.
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17. The nurse evaluates that teaching for the patient with iron deficiency anemia has been effective when the patient states A. "I will need to take the iron supplements the rest of my life." B. "I will increase my dietary intake of milk and milk products." C. "I should increase my activity to increase my aerobic capacity." D. "I should take the iron for several months after my blood is normal."
answer
D. "I should take the iron for several months after my blood is normal." To replace the body's iron stores, iron supplements should be continued for 2 to 3 months after the Hb level returns to normal, but if the cause of the iron deficiency is corrected, the supplements do not need to be taken for a lifetime. Milk and milk products are poor sources of dietary iron. Activity should be gradually increased as Hb levels return to normal because aerobic capacity can be increased when adequate Hb is available.
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18. Nursing interventions for the patient with aplastic anemia are directed toward the prevention of the complications of A. fatigue and dyspnea. B. hemorrhage and infection. C. thromboemboli and gangrene. D. cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure.
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B. hemorrhage and infection. Hemorrhage from thrombocytopenia and infection from neutropenia are the greatest risks for the patient with aplastic anemia. The patient will experience fatigue from anemia, but bleeding and infection are the major causes of death in aplastic anemia.
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19. A patient with hemophilia is hospitalized with acute knee pain and swelling. An appropriate nursing intervention for the patient includes A. wrapping the knee with an elastic bandage. B. placing the patient on bed rest and applying ice to the joint. C. gently performing range-of-motion (ROM) exercises to the knee to prevent adhesions. D. administering nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as needed for pain.
answer
B. placing the patient on bed rest and applying ice to the joint. During an acute bleeding episode in a joint, it is important to totally rest the involved joint and slow bleeding with application of ice. Drugs that decrease platelet aggregation, such as aspirin or NSAIDs, should not be used for pain. As soon as bleeding stops, mobilization of the affected area is encouraged with range-of-motion (ROM) exercises and physical therapy.
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20. Using light pressure with the index and middle fingers, the nurse cannot palpate any of the patient's superficial lymph nodes. The nurse A. records this finding as normal. B. should reassess the lymph nodes using deeper pressure. C. asks the patient about any history of any radiation therapy. D. notifies the health care provider that x-rays of the nodes will be necessary.
answer
A. records this finding as normal. Superficial lymph nodes are evaluated by light palpation, but they are not normally palpable. It may be normal to find small (<1.0 cm), mobile, firm, nontender nodes. Deep lymph nodes are detected radiographically.
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21. Select all that apply. Which of the following are significant risk factors for leukemia? A. Being a longtime smoker B. Employment in an oil refinery C. History of hemophilia in parent D. Having Down syndrome E. Having a twin brother with leukemia F. Treatment with an alkylating agent = 3 years ago
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BDEF Exposure to chemical agents, treatment with alkylating cancer drugs, leukemia in a sibling, and the patient's having Down syndrome are all risk factors for leukemia.
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absorption atelectasis
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alveolar collapse that occurs when high concentrations of oxygen are given and oxygen replaces nitrogen in the alveoli; if airway obstruction occurs, the oxygen is absorbed into the bloodstream and the alveoli collapse.
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acute bronchitis
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an inflammation of the lower respiratory tract that is usually due to infection.
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adventitious sounds
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extra breath sounds that are not normally heard, such as crackles, rhonchi, wheezes, and pleural friction rubs.
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allergic rhinitis
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the reaction of the nasal mucosa to a specific allergen.
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alpha 1-antitrypsin
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a serum protein produced by the liver normally found in the lungs that inhibits proteolytic enzymes of white cells from lysing lung tissue; genetic deficiency of this protein can cause emphysema.
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apnea
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an absence of spontaneous respirations.
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asthma
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a chronic inflammatory lung disease that results in airflow obstruction; characterized by recurring episodes of paroxysmal dyspnea, wheezing on expiration and/or inspiration caused by constriction of the bronchi, coughing, and viscous mucoid bronchial secretions.
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centrilobular emphysema
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type of emphysema often associated with chronic bronchitis in which respiratory bronchioles enlarge, the walls are destroyed, and the bronchioles become confluent; characterized by enlargement of air spaces in the proximal part of the acinus, primarily at the level of the respiratory bronchioles.
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chemoreceptor
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a sensory nerve cell that responds to a change in the chemical composition (PaCO2 and pH) of the fluid around it.
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chest percussion
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rhythmic percussion of a patient's chest with cupped hands to loosen retained respiratory secretions.
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chest physiotherapy
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a series of maneuvers including percussion, vibration, and postural drainage designed to promote clearance of excessive respiratory secretions.
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chronic bronchitis
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obstructive pulmonary disease characterized by excessive production of mucus and chronic inflammatory changes in the bronchi, resulting in a cough with expectoration for at least 3 months of the year for more than 2 consecutive years.
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chronic pancreatitis
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pulmonary disease state characterized by the presence of airflow obstruction caused by chronic bronchitis or emphysema; clinical use of the term indicates the presence of chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema; includes asthma, chronic bronchiectasis, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.
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chylothorax
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a condition marked by lymphatic fluid in the pleural space caused by a leak in the thoracic duct.
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community-acquired pneumonia
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a lower respiratory tract infection of the lung parenchyma with onset in the community or during the first 2 days of hospitalization.
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compliance
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a measure of the ease of expansion of the lungs and thorax.
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cor pulmonale
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hypertrophy of the right side of the heart, with or without heart failure, resulting from pulmonary hypertension.
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crackle
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short, low-pitched sounds consisting of discontinuous bubbling caused by air passing through airway intermittently occluded by mucus, unstable bronchial wall, or fold of mucosa; evident on inspiration and, at times, expiration; similar sound to blowing through a straw under water.
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cystic fibrosis
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an autosomal recessive, multisystem disease characterized by altered function of the exocrine glands involving primarily the lungs, pancreas, and sweat glands.
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deviated septum
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a deflection of the normally straight nasal septum.
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diaphragmatic breathing
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breathing with the use of the diaphragm to achieve maximum inhalation and slow respiratory rate.
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dry powder inhaler
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dry powdered drug delivered by inhalation.
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dyspnea
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shortness of breath; difficulty breathing that may be caused by certain heart conditions, strenuous exercise, or anxiety.
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elastic recoil
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the tendency for the lungs to recoil or reduce in volume after being stretched or expanded.
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emphysema
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an abnormal condition of the pulmonary system, characterized by overinflation and destructive changes in alveolar walls.
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empyema
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an accumulation of purulent exudates in a body cavity, especially the pleural space, as a result of bacterial infection, such as pleurisy or tuberculosis.
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epistaxis
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nosebleed
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esophageal speech
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a method of swallowing air, trapping it in the esophagus, and releasing it to create sound.
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flail chest
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instability of the chest wall resulting from multiple rib fractures.
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fremitus
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vibration of the chest wall produced by vocalization.
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hemothorax
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accumulation of blood in the pleural space.
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hospital-acquired pneumonia
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pneumonia occurring 48 hours or longer after hospital admission and not incubating at the time of hospitalization.
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hypercapnia
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greater than normal amounts of carbon dioxide in the blood (PaCO2 > 45 mm Hg); also called hypercarbia.
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hyperreactivity
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an abnormal condition in which responses to stimuli are exaggerated.
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hyperresponsiveness
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excessive or exaggerated response to a stimulus; in asthma leads to bronchoconstriction in response to physical, chemical, or pharmacologic stimuli.
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hypocapnia
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low arterial carbon dioxide pressure (PaCO2 < 35 mm Hg); also called hypocarbia.
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lung abscess
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a pus-containing lesion of the lung parenchyma that results in a cavity formed by necrosis of lung tissue.
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mechanical receptors
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receptors located in lungs, upper airways, chest wall, and diaphragm that are stimulated by irritants, muscle stretching, and alveolar wall distortion.
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metered-dose inhaler
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aerosolized drug delivered in a specific amount by activating the inhaler or by inhaling.
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nasal polyps
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benign mucous membrane masses that form slowly in response to repeated inflammation of the sinus or nasal mucosa and project into the nasal cavity.
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normocapnia
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normal arterial carbon dioxide pressure (PaCO2 35 to 45 mm Hg).
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O2 toxicity
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a condition of oxygen overdosage caused by prolonged exposure to a high levels of oxygen; may inactivate pulmonary surfactant and lead to development of acute respiratory distress syndrome.
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obstructive sleep apnea
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a condition characterized by partial or complete upper airway obstruction during sleep, causing apnea and hypopnea.
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pancreatic insufficiency
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a condition characterized by inadequate production and secretion of pancreatic hormones or enzymes.
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panlobular emphysema
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type of emphysema involving distention and destruction of the entire primary respiratory lobule; usually associated with "1-antitrypsin deficiency; also called chronic hypertrophic, diffuse, generalized, panlobular, or vesicular emphysema.
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pleural effusion
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an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the intrapleural spaces of the lungs.
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pleural friction rub
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creaking or grating sound from roughened, inflamed surfaces of the pleura rubbing together, evident during inspiration, expiration, or both and no change with coughing; usually uncomfortable, especially on deep inspiration.
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pleurisy (pleuritis)
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inflammation of the pleura.
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pneumoconiosis
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a general term for lung diseases caused by inhalation and retention of dust particles.
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pneumonia
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an acute inflammation of the lungs, often caused by inhaled pneumococci of the species Streptococcus pneumoniae.
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pneumothorax
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a collection of air or gas in the pleural space causing the lung to collapse.
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postural drainage
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the use of various positions to promote gravity drainage of bronchial secretions; coughing usually expels secretions of the trachea.
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pulmonary edema
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an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the alveoli and interstitial spaces of the lungs caused most commonly by heart failure; an acute, life-threatening situation in which the lung alveoli become filled with serous or serosanguineous fluid caused most commonly by heart failure.
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pulmonary embolism
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a thromboembolic occlusion of the pulmonary vasculature resulting from thrombi in the venous circulation or right side of the heart and from other sources, such as amniotic fluid, air, fat, bone marrow, and foreign IV material that travel as emboli until lodging in the pulmonary vessels.
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pulmonary hypertension
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elevated pulmonary pressure resulting from an increase in pulmonary vascular resistance to blood flow through small arteries and arterioles.
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pursed-lip breathing
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a technique of exhaling against pursed lips to prolong exhalation, preventing bronchiolar collapse and air trapping; done to increase expiratory airway pressure, improve oxygenation of the blood, and help prevent early airway closure.
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rhinoplasty
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the surgical reconstruction of the nose.
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rhonchi
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continuous rumbling, snoring, or rattling sounds from obstruction of large airways with secretions; most prominent on expiration; change often evident after coughing or suctioning.
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status asthmaticus
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a severe, life-threatening asthma attack that is refractory to usual treatment and places the patient at risk for developing respiratory failure.
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surfactant
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a lipoprotein that lowers the surface tension in the alveoli, reduces the amount of pressure needed to inflate the alveoli, and decreases the tendency of the alveoli to collapse.
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tension pneumothorax
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a pneumothorax with rapid accumulation of air in the pleural space causing severely high intrapleural pressures with resultant tension on the heart and great vessels.
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thoracentesis
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a surgical procedure done to remove fluid from the pleural space.
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thoracotomy
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surgical opening into the thoracic cavity.
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tidal volume
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volume of air exchanged with each breath.
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tracheostomy
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surgical opening into the trachea through which an indwelling tube may be inserted.
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tracheotomy
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a surgical incision into the trachea for the purpose of establishing an airway; performed below a blockage by a foreign body, tumor, or edema of the glottis.
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trigger
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a substance, object, or agent that initiates or stimulates an action; in asthma, any stimuli that initiates the IgE
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tuberculosis
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an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis; usually involves the lungs but also occurs in the larynx, kidneys, bones, adrenal glands, lymph nodes, and meninges and can be disseminated throughout the body.
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vibration
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pressing on the chest with the flat of the hands while repeatedly tensing the hand and arm muscles to facilitate movement of secretions to larger airways.
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wheezes
answer
a form of rhonchus characterized by continuous high-pitched squeaking sound caused by rapid vibration of bronchial walls.
