a client with a chest tube is post op what is the priority nursing action
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Nursing Elites

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1. A client with a chest tube is post-op. What is the priority nursing action?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to check for air leaks and ensure the proper functioning of the chest tube. This action is crucial post-op to prevent complications such as pneumothorax or hemothorax. Clamping the chest tube every 2 hours (Choice A) is incorrect as it can lead to a buildup of pressure within the chest, risking complications. Encouraging deep breathing and coughing every 2 hours (Choice C) is important for respiratory hygiene but not the priority over ensuring the chest tube's proper function. Encouraging frequent coughing to clear secretions (Choice D) is not the priority when assessing a chest tube post-op; ensuring the chest tube's integrity and function take precedence.

2. How should a healthcare professional manage a patient with suspected infection?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Correct answer: When managing a patient with suspected infection, it is crucial to monitor vital signs like temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate to assess the severity of the infection. Administering antibiotics is also essential to treat the infection. Choice B is incorrect because while checking for fever and monitoring white blood cell count are important, they alone are not sufficient to manage the patient. Choice C focuses on assessing pain and localized swelling, which are important but not primary in managing suspected infection. Choice D mentions monitoring for chills and administering fluids, which are not the primary interventions for managing a suspected infection.

3. A nurse is reinforcing teaching about a clear liquid diet. What should the client avoid?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Ginger ale. A clear liquid diet includes fluids that are see-through and easily digestible. Ginger ale is a carbonated beverage that is allowed on a clear liquid diet. Orange sherbet, choice B, is not suitable for a clear liquid diet as it contains dairy products and solid particles, which are not transparent. Lemon-lime sports drinks, choice A, may contain added colorings or particles that are not allowed on a clear liquid diet. Black coffee, choice C, is also not recommended on a clear liquid diet as it is not a clear liquid and contains substances that may be hard to digest.

4. A client is learning to use a cane due to left-leg weakness. Which instruction is correct?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction when using a cane due to leg weakness is to maintain two points of support on the floor at all times. This provides stability and support while walking. Choice A is incorrect because the cane should be used on the weaker side to provide assistance. Choice C is incorrect as the cane and weak leg should move together for support. Choice D is incorrect as advancing the cane too far with each step may compromise balance and stability.

5. A nurse is caring for a client with an NG tube who is experiencing nausea and decreased gastric secretions. What is the priority nursing action?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to replace the NG tube with a new one. When a client with an NG tube experiences nausea and decreased gastric secretions, it indicates a possible problem with the tube itself. Replacing the tube ensures proper functioning and can alleviate the symptoms. Increasing the suction pressure (Choice A) can worsen the client's condition. Turning the client onto their side (Choice B) may be helpful in some situations but does not address the underlying issue. Irrigating the NG tube with sterile water (Choice C) is not the priority and may not resolve the problem.

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