A patient has a lung problem caused by dysfunction in the pores of Kohn. What action by the healthcare professional is best?
A)Have the patient drink plenty of water.
B)Give the patient supplemental oxygen.
C)Have the patient do breathing exercises.
D)Withhold pain medicine so the patient stays awake.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The pores of Kohn, which open only during deep breathing, allow air to pass from well-ventilated alveoli to obstructed alveoli. A dysfunction in this system would lead to absorption atelectasis, which is the result of gradual absorption of air from obstructed or hypoventilated alveoli. The professional should have the patient do breathing exercises, including using an incentive spirometer. Water will thin any secretions the patient has but will not directly improve ventilation. The patient may need oxygen if the oxygen saturations are low, but this does not address the cause. Withholding pain medication will lead to a patient being unwilling to move about or do breathing exercises.

A Patient Has a Lung Problem Caused by Dysfunction in the Pores