the nurse is caring for a postoperative client who has a chest tube connected to suction and a water seal drainage system which of the following indic
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1. The healthcare provider is caring for a postoperative client who has a chest tube connected to suction and a water seal drainage system. Which of the following indicates to the healthcare provider that the chest tube is functioning properly?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Fluctuation of the fluid level within the water seal chamber indicates proper functioning of the chest tube. This fluctuation reflects the normal ebb and flow of air and fluid in the pleural space, demonstrating that the system is maintaining the appropriate pressure. Continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber may indicate an air leak, absence of fluid in the drainage tubing suggests a blockage, and equal amounts of fluid drainage in each collection chamber are not expected in this system.

2. During an assessment, an older adult client's son reports that the client has been sick with a respiratory illness for the past 6 days. Which of the following assessment findings is a manifestation of pneumonia in the older adult client?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Confusion is a common manifestation of pneumonia in older adults. It can result from inadequate oxygenation to the brain due to respiratory compromise. Bradycardia, night sweats, and narrowed pulse pressure are not typically specific findings associated with pneumonia and should be further assessed or monitored, but confusion is a key indicator that warrants immediate attention.

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

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.

4. A client is 12 hours postoperative following colon resection. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan to reduce respiratory complications?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Following a colon resection surgery, it is essential to support the incision site to reduce the risk of respiratory complications. Splinting the incision helps to minimize pain during coughing, aiding in effective clearing of secretions and preventing respiratory problems. This intervention supports the client's respiratory function postoperatively, promoting optimal recovery.

5. While assessing a client with a tracheostomy, a nurse notes that the tracheostomy tube is pulsing with the heartbeat during a pulse check. No other abnormal findings are noted. What action should the nurse take?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The pulsation of the tracheostomy tube with the heartbeat may indicate a tracheoinnominate artery fistula, which can lead to life-threatening hemorrhage if the artery is breached. In this scenario, as there is no active bleeding yet, the nurse should remain with the client and have another person notify the provider immediately. If the client starts to hemorrhage, the nurse should remove the tracheostomy tube and apply pressure at the bleeding site, preparing the client for urgent surgical intervention.

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