Respiratory Basics
What is the purpose of Fowler’s position for patients with respiratory issues?
Allows maximum lung expansion
Which lab value indicates worsening pneumonia?
Elevated white blood cell (WBC) count
Which respiratory pattern is associated with diabetic ketoacidosis?
Kussmaul respirations
Why should adrenergic bronchodilators not be overused?
Can cause rebound bronchoconstriction or death
What is the most important teaching after a tonsillectomy?
Keep in semi-Fowler’s position
What should a nurse do first when a ventilator alarm goes off?
Check the patient first
Why may pulse oximetry be inaccurate in patients with dark skin tones?
Melanin can affect light transmission in pulse oximeters
What condition causes sudden SOB, chest pain, and may be diagnosed with a pulmonary angiography?
Pulmonary embolism
Which type of medication must be tapered off to prevent adrenal crisis?
Prednisone, this med must be tapered slowly
What is the first action for a nosebleed (epistaxis)?
Sit up, lean forward, and pinch the nose
Which lung sound suggests a tracheostomy patient needs suctioning?
Audible crackles or wheezes
What action mobilizes secretions and prevents mucus buildup?
Turn patient every 2 hours
Which asthma medication is used as a rescue inhaler?
Albuterol
What medication must be avoided in flu patients with high blood pressure?
Decongestants, can raise blood pressure.
(AKA REBOUND HTN......)
What education is important after a tracheostomy?
Avoid powders, hair products, and chemicals around the stoma
What is the main reason an LPN should not change a chest tube dressing?
LPNs cannot change dressings alone, must notify provider
Why must the chest tube drainage system remain below the chest?
Prevents backflow of fluid or air into chest cavity
Why should antitussives be avoided in COPD patients?
They suppress the cough needed to clear mucus
What treatment is used to remove pleural effusion fluid?
Thoracentesis
What is the purpose of putting a mask on a TB patient before transport?
To prevent airborne spread of tuberculosis
What skin finding feels like “Rice Krispies” and signals air in subcutaneous tissue?
Subcutaneous emphysema
What is the first nursing action if a chest tube dressing is saturated?
Reinforce the dressing and notify the provider
Which breathing technique helps during sudden shortness of breath?
Pursed-lip breathing
What action should be taken when prednisone is stopped abruptly?
Can cause adrenal crisis
What are signs of bronchiectasis?
History of cystic fibrosis, lower extremity edema, and bronchial dilation