what is the most important intervention for a patient experiencing respiratory distress
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ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2020 Answers

1. What is the most important intervention for a patient experiencing respiratory distress?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering oxygen is crucial in managing a patient experiencing respiratory distress. Oxygen therapy helps to improve oxygen levels in the blood, supporting vital organ functions. While monitoring airway patency is important, administering oxygen takes precedence in ensuring the patient receives an adequate oxygen supply. Providing bronchodilators may be beneficial in certain respiratory conditions, but the immediate priority in distress is to address oxygenation. Calling for assistance is essential, but the immediate intervention to support the patient's respiratory function is administering oxygen.

2. A nurse is reviewing the plan of care for a client who is receiving chemotherapy for cancer. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include to prevent infection?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to use a soft toothbrush. Using a soft toothbrush helps prevent bleeding in clients receiving chemotherapy, who are at risk for mucositis. Encouraging the client to eat high-protein foods (Choice A) is important for overall health but not directly related to preventing infection. Encouraging the client to drink 2 liters of fluid daily (Choice B) is essential for hydration but does not specifically prevent infection. Instructing the client to use a mouthwash containing alcohol (Choice D) is contraindicated as alcohol-containing mouthwashes can cause irritation and dryness in the oral mucosa, increasing the risk of infection.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 days postoperative following abdominal surgery and has a new prescription for a regular diet. For which of the following findings should the nurse notify the provider?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Absent bowel sounds are concerning as they indicate potential complications such as ileus, which is a risk after abdominal surgery. The absence of bowel sounds can suggest decreased or absent intestinal motility, which may lead to complications if not addressed promptly. The nurse should notify the provider immediately to assess the situation and intervene accordingly. Choices A and B are common postoperative occurrences and do not necessarily warrant immediate provider notification. Choice C, vomiting, while concerning, may be a common postoperative symptom; however, absent bowel sounds are a more critical finding that requires prompt attention.

4. What is an early sign that suctioning is needed for a client with a tracheostomy?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Irritability is an early sign that suctioning is needed for a client with a tracheostomy. When secretions accumulate in the airway, it can lead to discomfort and irritability in the client. Bradycardia, hypotension, and decreased oxygen saturation are usually later signs of inadequate airway clearance and oxygenation. Bradycardia may indicate severe hypoxia, while hypotension and decreased oxygen saturation are consequences of prolonged airway obstruction.

5. A nurse is caring for a client with dementia who is at risk of falls. What is the most appropriate intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for a client with dementia at risk of falls is to use a bed exit alarm to notify staff of attempts to leave the bed. This intervention allows for timely assistance and prevents falls. Raising all four side rails (Choice B) can lead to entrapment or agitate the client. Encouraging frequent ambulation with assistance (Choice C) may not be suitable for a client at high risk of falls. Using restraints (Choice D) should be avoided as they can increase agitation, risk of injury, and have ethical implications.

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