A healthcare professional is assessing a client following a gunshot wound to the chest. For which of the following findings should the healthcare professional not monitor to detect a pneumothorax?

A. Tachypnea

B. Deviation of the trachea

C. Bradycardia

D. Pleuritic pain

Correct Answer: C: Bradycardia
Rationale: Bradycardia, which is a slow heart rate, is not typically associated with a pneumothorax. In a pneumothorax, the presence of air in the pleural space can lead to lung collapse, causing symptoms such as tachypnea (rapid breathing), deviation of the trachea, and pleuritic pain. Monitoring for bradycardia may not be as relevant in this context as it is not a typical indicator of a pneumothorax.

The physician orders the administration of high-humidity oxygen by face mask and placement of the patient in a high Fowler’s position. After assessing Mrs. Paul, the nurse writes the following nursing diagnosis: Impaired gas exchange related to increased secretions. Which of the following nursing interventions has the greatest potential for improving this situation?

• A. Encourage the patient to increase her fluid intake to 200 ml every 2 hours
• B. Place a humidifier in the patient’s room
• C. Continue administering oxygen by high humidity face mask
• D. Perform chest physiotherapy on a regular schedule

Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Chest physiotherapy is the most effective intervention in cases of impaired gas exchange related to increased secretions. This technique helps mobilize and clear secretions from the airways, thereby improving gas exchange in the lungs. Placing a humidifier or administering oxygen by high humidity face mask may provide moisture but may not directly address the clearance of secretions. Encouraging increased fluid intake can help with hydration but may not address the underlying issue of impaired gas exchange due to secretions.

Which of the following signs and symptoms would the nurse expect to find when assessing an Asian patient for postoperative pain following abdominal surgery?

• A. Decreased blood pressure and heart rate and shallow respirations
• B. Quiet crying
• C. Immobility, diaphoresis, and avoidance of deep breathing or coughing
• D. Changing position every 2 hours

Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Immobility, diaphoresis, and avoidance of deep breathing or coughing are common signs of pain.

When discussing hair loss with Mrs. Lim, who begins to cry, the best response would be:

• A. Don’t worry. It’s only temporary
• B. Why are you crying? I didn’t get to the bad news yet
• C. Your hair is really pretty
• D. I know this will be difficult for you, but your hair will grow back after the completion of chemotherapy

Correct Answer: D
Rationale: When a patient is emotionally affected, it is essential to acknowledge their feelings while providing reassurance and information. Option D demonstrates empathy by acknowledging the difficulty Mrs. Lim is facing and offers hope by reassuring her that her hair will grow back after chemotherapy, which can provide comfort and support during a challenging time.

A 38-year-old patient’s vital signs at 8 a.m. are axillary temperature 99.6°F (37.6°C); pulse rate 88; respiratory rate 30. Which findings should be reported?

• A. Respiratory rate only
• B. Temperature only
• C. Pulse rate and temperature
• D. Temperature and respiratory rate

Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Both an elevated temperature and an increased respiratory rate are abnormal vital signs that could indicate an underlying health issue. Reporting both of these findings is crucial to ensure appropriate evaluation and intervention if needed.