The physician orders a sTAT CXR examination, which shows a significant pleural effusion developing inthe LLL, with extension into the RLL
Based on the evolving pleural effusion with evidence of decompensation (hypoxia) by the patient, what treatment would the physician likely pursue, and what preparations would you be responsible for?
• A thoracentesis will be performed to remove the pleural fluid. Consent would need to be obtained
from the patient.
• Given the new onset and presentation, anticipate sending fluid for cytologic study (to assess for
cancer cells, determine its color and consistency).
• Make certain to premedicate the patient with pain medicine before beginning the procedure to
reduce discomfort and decrease anxiety.
• Obtain a thoracentesis tray if the procedure is to be done at the bedside. In some facilities, the
thoracentesis might be performed in a special procedures unit.
• When the physician arrives, you help B.K. sit on the side of the bed and remain still while the trocar
is being inserted. Support her, helping her to remain still while the fluid is drained.
• After the procedure, apply a sterile dressing to the site.
• Make certain that all specimens are properly labeled (which usually includes a date, time, your
initials, and fluid source as well as the patient's identification). Then send the specimens to the
laboratory for analysis following the facility protocol.
• Continue to monitor her VS in the postprocedural period.
You might also like to view...
The director of nursing is identifying roles and responsibilities of nurse practitioners hired to provide community health care. In which order should the director review the ANA standards of practice for these care providers?
1. Planning 2. Diagnosis 3. Evaluation 4. Assessment 5. Consultation 6. Implementation 7. Coordination of care 8. Outcomes identification 9. Prescriptive authority and treatment 10. Health teaching and health promotion
Multiple piercings up the penile shaft is known as which of the following?
a. Prince Albert c. dydoe b. frenum ladder d. ampallang
A quality-improvement program uses the plan, do, check, and act cycle to improve performance. Which part of the process involves using statistical data to determine progress?
A) Check B) Plan C) Do D) Act
After piloting changes based on evidence-based research, the nurse understands that they will be instituted as a result of the effects on which of the following? (Select all that apply.)
a. Staff b. Number of UAPs available c. Cost d. Patient e. Census