Nursing Elites

1. During an assessment of the respiratory pattern of an older adult client receiving end-of-life care, which of the following assessment findings should the nurse identify as Cheyne-Stokes respirations?

• A. Breathing ranging from very deep to very shallow with periods of apnea
• B. Shallow to normal breaths alternating with periods of apnea
• C. Rapid respirations that are unusually deep and regular
• D. An inability to breathe without dyspnea unless sitting upright

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a pattern of breathing that ranges from very deep to very shallow with periods of apnea (temporary cessation of breathing). This pattern is often seen in clients near the end of life or with certain medical conditions affecting the respiratory control center in the brain. The alternating deep and shallow breaths can be distressing for both the client and caregivers. It is crucial for the nurse to recognize this pattern to provide appropriate care and support to the client and their family during this challenging time.

2. After an open lung biopsy, a nurse assesses a client. Which assessment finding is matched with the correct intervention?

• A. Client states he is dizzy. Nurse applies oxygen and pulse oximetry.
• B. Client's HR is 55 beats/min. Nurse withholds pain medication.
• C. Client has reduced breath sounds. Nurse calls the physician immediately.
• D. Client's RR is 18 breaths/min. Nurse decreases the oxygen flow rate.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: After an open lung biopsy, a potential complication is pneumothorax, often indicated by reduced or absent breath sounds. The nurse should promptly notify the physician to address this serious issue and ensure timely intervention.

3. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who is recovering from a lung biopsy. Which assessment finding requires immediate action?

• A. Increased temperature
• B. Absent breath sounds
• C. Productive cough
• D. Incisional discomfort

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Absent breath sounds may indicate a pneumothorax, a serious complication post lung biopsy. This condition requires immediate attention to prevent respiratory distress.

4. A client is wearing a Venturi mask to receive oxygen, and the dinner tray has arrived. What action by the nurse is best?

• A. Assess the client's oxygen saturation and, if normal, turn off the oxygen.
• B. Determine if the client can switch to a nasal cannula during the meal.
• C. Have the client lift the mask off the face when taking bites of food.
• D. Turn off the oxygen while the client eats the meal and then restart it.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should determine if the client can safely switch to a nasal cannula during meals. It is crucial to ensure that the provider has approved this change. Oxygen is considered a medication and should be delivered continuously. Turning off the oxygen or lifting the mask while eating can lead to a decrease in the FiO2 delivered, potentially compromising the client's oxygenation status. Therefore, the best course of action is to ascertain if transitioning to a nasal cannula is appropriate for the client during the meal.

5. A client's arterial blood gas results show a pH of 7.3 and a PaCO2 of 50 mm Hg. The client is experiencing which of the following acid-base imbalances?

• A. Metabolic acidosis
• B. Metabolic alkalosis
• C. Respiratory acidosis
• D. Respiratory alkalosis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In respiratory acidosis, there is an excess of carbon dioxide (PaCO2 > 45 mm Hg) leading to a decrease in pH (<7.35). The given values of a pH of 7.3 and PaCO2 of 50 mm Hg indicate respiratory acidosis. Metabolic acidosis involves a primary decrease in bicarbonate levels with a compensatory decrease in PaCO2 to maintain balance. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by elevated pH and bicarbonate levels. Respiratory alkalosis is marked by low PaCO2 and increased pH levels.

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