A critical-care nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with pneumonia as a surgical complication. The nurse's assessment reveals that the patient has an increased work of breathing due to copious tracheobronchial secretions
What should the nurse encourage the patient to do?
A) Increase oral fluids unless contraindicated.
B) Call the nurse for oral suctioning, as needed.
C) Lie in a low Fowler's or supine position.
D) Increase activity.
Ans: A
Feedback:
The nurse should encourage hydration because adequate hydration thins and loosens pulmonary secretions. Oral suctioning is not sufficiently deep to remove tracheobronchial secretions. The patient should have the head of the bed raised, and rest should be promoted to avoid exacerbation of symptoms.
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