what is the nurses priority when managing a client with a chest tube postoperatively

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor

1. What is the priority when managing a client with a chest tube postoperatively?

A. Clamp the chest tube for 30 minutes every 4 hours
B. Check for air leaks and proper functioning of the chest tube
C. Encourage deep breathing and coughing every 2 hours
D. Encourage frequent coughing to clear secretions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority when managing a client with a chest tube postoperatively is to check for air leaks and ensure the proper functioning of the chest tube. This is crucial to prevent complications such as pneumothorax or hemothorax. Clamping the chest tube intermittently can lead to a buildup of pressure in the pleural space and should not be done without a specific medical indication. Encouraging deep breathing and coughing helps with lung expansion but is not the priority over ensuring the chest tube's proper function. Encouraging frequent coughing may increase the risk of dislodging the chest tube or causing complications.

2. A client diagnosed with hypertension requires lifestyle changes. What change should the nurse emphasize?

A. Increase intake of high-fat foods
B. Reduce sodium intake
C. Reduce intake of dairy products
D. Increase intake of high-protein foods

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Reducing sodium intake is crucial for managing hypertension as excess sodium can lead to increased blood pressure. High-fat foods (Choice A) are not recommended as they can contribute to heart issues. While dairy products (Choice C) should be consumed in moderation, they are not specifically targeted in hypertension management. High-protein foods (Choice D) are not the priority; rather, reducing sodium intake takes precedence due to its direct impact on blood pressure levels.

3. What is the proper technique for measuring a patient's blood pressure?

A. Place the cuff at heart level and listen for Korotkoff sounds
B. Ensure the patient is in a seated position and inflate the cuff to 180 mmHg
C. Use a manual sphygmomanometer and measure blood pressure on both arms
D. Monitor pulse rate and apply pressure to the brachial artery

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct technique for measuring blood pressure involves placing the cuff at heart level to ensure accurate readings. Listening for Korotkoff sounds helps determine the systolic and diastolic pressures. Choice B is incorrect as inflating the cuff to 180 mmHg is excessive and can lead to inaccurate readings. Choice C is incorrect as it is unnecessary to measure blood pressure on both arms unless there is a specific medical reason to do so. Choice D is incorrect as monitoring pulse rate and applying pressure to the brachial artery are not part of the standard blood pressure measurement technique.

4. What is the most appropriate safety measure for a client using home oxygen?

A. Store oxygen tanks upright when not in use
B. Ensure oxygen tanks are kept upright at all times
C. Allow family members to smoke in designated areas
D. Keep oxygen equipment at least 10 feet away from heat sources

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to ensure oxygen tanks are kept upright at all times. This is important to prevent the tanks from falling over, which can lead to injuries or tank damage. Choice A is incorrect because oxygen tanks should not be stored in a closet when not in use, as this can lead to poor ventilation and potential hazards. Choice C is incorrect because smoking near oxygen tanks poses a significant fire risk. Choice D is incorrect because while it is important to keep oxygen equipment away from heat sources, ensuring the tanks are kept upright is a more critical safety measure.

5. A nurse in a long-term care facility is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has a new ostomy. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?

A. Change the appliance daily
B. Clean the stoma once a day
C. Avoid changing the appliance for a week
D. Change the appliance twice each week

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to change the appliance twice each week. Changing the appliance too frequently can irritate the skin around the stoma, while not changing it often enough can lead to infection. Changing the appliance twice a week helps to maintain hygiene without causing irritation. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because changing the appliance daily can cause irritation, cleaning the stoma once a day may not be sufficient for proper hygiene, and avoiding changing the appliance for a week can increase the risk of infection and skin breakdown.