A patient suffering from blast lung has been admitted to the hospital and is exhibiting signs and symptoms of an air embolus. What is the nurse's most appropriate action?
A) Place the patient in the Trendelenberg position.
B) Assess the patient's airway and begin chest compressions.
C) Position the patient in the prone, left lateral position.
D) Encourage the patient to perform deep breathing and coughing exercises.
Ans: C
Feedback:
In the event of an air embolus, the patient should be placed immediately in the prone left lateral position to prevent migration of the embolus and will require emergent treatment in a hyperbaric chamber. Chest compressions, deep breathing, and coughing would exacerbate the patient's condition. Trendelenberg positioning is not recommended.
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