Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional assesses a client's respiratory status. Which information is of highest priority for the healthcare professional to obtain?

• A. Average daily fluid intake
• B. Neck circumference
• C. Height & weight
• D. Occupation & hobbies

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Obtaining information about a client's occupation and hobbies is crucial when assessing respiratory status as many respiratory problems can result from chronic exposure to inhalation irritants related to these activities. Understanding the client's potential exposure can help the healthcare professional identify risk factors and provide appropriate interventions to promote respiratory health.

2. A client with asthma is assessed by a nurse and presents with bilateral wheezing, decreased pulse oxygen saturation, and suprasternal retraction on inhalation. Which actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply)

• A. Administer prescribed albuterol (Ventolin) inhaler.
• B. Assess the client for tracheal deviation.
• C. Administer oxygen to maintain saturations greater than 94%.
• D. Perform peak expiratory flow measurements.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Suprasternal retraction during inhalation indicates the use of accessory muscles and difficulty in moving air due to airway narrowing, supported by bilateral wheezing and decreased pulse oxygen saturation. This client needs immediate intervention as their asthma is not responding to the medication. Administering oxygen to maintain saturations above 94% is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation. While administering a rescue inhaler could also be necessary, oxygen therapy takes priority in this situation.

3. A client is experiencing an acute exacerbation of asthma. Which medication should the nurse administer first?

• A. Albuterol (Proventil)
• B. Ipratropium (Atrovent)
• C. Salmeterol (Serevent)
• D. Fluticasone (Flovent)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During an acute exacerbation of asthma, the priority is to administer a short-acting beta2-agonist like Albuterol (Proventil) first. Albuterol acts quickly to dilate the airways and provide immediate relief of bronchospasm. Ipratropium (Atrovent) is an anticholinergic that can be used as an adjunct therapy. Salmeterol (Serevent) is a long-acting beta2-agonist intended for maintenance therapy, not for acute exacerbations. Fluticasone (Flovent) is a corticosteroid used for long-term asthma control and should not be the initial medication given during an acute exacerbation.

4. A client has a disposable three-chamber chest tube in place. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing a complication?

• A. Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber
• B. Occasional bubbling in the water-seal chamber
• C. Constant bubbling in the suction-control chamber
• D. Fluctuations in the fluid level in the water-seal chamber

Correct answer: Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber

Rationale: Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber indicates air is leaking into the pleural space, which is a complication. The water-seal chamber should have intermittent bubbling during normal functioning. Occasional bubbling in the water-seal chamber is normal and shows the system is working as intended. Constant bubbling in the suction-control chamber suggests an issue with the suction control. Fluctuations in the fluid level in the water-seal chamber are an expected finding.

5. A client with asthma is being taught about peak flow meter use. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will use my peak flow meter every morning.
• B. I will use my peak flow meter when I feel short of breath.
• C. I will use my peak flow meter before using my inhaler.
• D. I will use my peak flow meter after using my inhaler.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Using the peak flow meter every morning is crucial for monitoring asthma control and making timely treatment adjustments. While using the meter when feeling short of breath or before using an inhaler can also be beneficial, the daily morning routine helps in consistent management of asthma symptoms.

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