Fairly easy

A postoperative patient has shallow breathing because of incisional pain and is at risk for atelectasis. Which nursing action best supports lung expansion?

Correct answer: A. Administer prescribed analgesia before breathing exercises

  • A. Administer prescribed analgesia before breathing exercises
  • B. Restrict oral fluids until the breathing improves
  • C. Keep the patient flat to reduce abdominal movement
  • D. Discourage coughing to protect the incision

Explanation

Adequate pain relief helps the patient breathe deeply, cough and mobilise secretions. Splinting the incision may also improve comfort, while restricting breathing and coughing increases the risk of atelectasis.

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About Oxygen Therapy and Airway Care

Airway care includes positioning, suctioning, coughing and deep-breathing exercises, incentive spirometry, oxygen delivery devices and humidification. Questions address indications, flow rates, safety precautions and monitoring for hypoxia or oxygen toxicity, while distinguishing nasal cannula, simple mask, non-rebreather mask and Venturi mask use.

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