Oxygenation & ABGs
Q: What are two signs of inadequate oxygenation?
A: Dyspnea and tachypnea.
Q: What causes atelectasis?
A: Alveolar collapse due to hypoventilation or obstruction.
Q: What is the pathophysiology of COPD?
A: Chronic inflammation leading to airway narrowing and alveolar damage.
Q: What are TB risk factors?
A: Close contact, immunosuppression, malnutrition.
Q: What is the leading cause of PE?
A: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Q: What accessory muscle use indicates respiratory distress?
A: Use of neck and abdominal muscles.
Q: List two nursing interventions to prevent atelectasis.
A: Incentive spirometry and early ambulation.
Q: Name two risk factors for COPD.
A: Smoking and air pollution.
Q: When is a TB skin test read and what is positive?
A: Read at 48-72 hours; ≥5-15 mm depending on risk.
Q: What are symptoms of PE?
A: Dyspnea, chest pain, hemoptysis, tachypnea, low O₂.
Q: What ABG change suggests respiratory acidosis?
A: pH < 7.35 with PaCO₂ > 45 mm Hg.
Q: Compare acute vs. chronic bronchitis.
A: Acute: Viral, contagious. Chronic: Long-term, productive cough.
Q: Describe the ‘blue bloater’ vs. ‘pink puffer’.
A: Blue bloater: chronic bronchitis. Pink puffer: emphysema.
Q: What isolation is required for TB?
A: Airborne precautions, N95 respirator.
Q: What is a D-dimer test?
A: Test for clot breakdown products, helps rule out PE.
Q: How does the nurse assess for hypoxemia?
A: Monitor SpO₂, observe for cyanosis or confusion.
Q: What are the risk factors for pneumonia?
A: Age, smoking, immobility, chronic diseases.
Q: Why is high-flow oxygen contraindicated for COPD?
A: Suppresses hypoxic respiratory drive.
Q: What is DOT and why is it used?
A: Directly Observed Therapy to ensure adherence.
Q: Compare anticoagulant vs. thrombolytic therapy.
A: Anticoagulants prevent clots; thrombolytics dissolve them.
Q: How do you distinguish acidosis as respiratory vs. metabolic?
A: Respiratory: CO₂ abnormal. Metabolic: HCO₃⁻ abnormal.
Q: What breath sounds are heard with emphysema?
A: Diminished breath sounds with prolonged expiration.
Q: How should inhalers be administered and what are side effects?
A: Use spacer, rinse mouth; side effects: hoarseness, thrush.
Q: What are common TB meds and duration?
A: INH, rifampin, pyrazinamide, ethambutol for 6–12 months.
Q: What is an IVC filter?
A: Device in vena cava to catch emboli when anticoagulation is contraindicated.