Deck 10: Infection Control and Safety Issues in the Clinic

Question 1

An occupational therapy (OT)practitioner is working with a client who has been admitted to the hospital because of complications resulting from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.While working on grooming and hygiene while standing at the sink,the client suddenly begins to get agitated,her skin becomes pale and appears moist,her breathing becomes shallow,and she begins to lose consciousness.Given the client's medical history,she is most likely experiencing which of the following?

A) Respiratory distress
B) Ketoacidosis
C) Insulin reaction

Answer 1

C
It is important for the OT practitioner to be able to differentiate between the conditions of hypoglycemia (insulin reaction) and hyperglycemia (ketoacidosis), which can lead to diabetic coma, as shown in Table 9-1 (Warning Signs and Symptoms of Insulin-Related Illnesses).

Question 2

An OT practitioner is working with a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who has been admitted to the hospital with pneumonia.The client begins to experience some shortness of breath while seated at a table completing a meal preparation activity.Which of the following is the correct dyspnea control position to use for the client?

A) Client bends deeply at the waist, resting the chest on the thighs.
B) Client sits upright with arms relaxed at the sides of the body.
C) Client bends forward slightly at the waist, leaning the forearms on the table.
D) Client leans back against the chair backrest with arms resting in the lap.

Answer 2

C
The orthopneic position may be used for clients who are sitting or standing.In either case,the client bends forward slightly at the waist and supports the upper body by leaning the forearms on a table or counter.

Question 3

In addition to teaching the client to use dyspnea control postures,the occupational therapist also teaches the client to use pursed-lip breathing to reduce shortness of breath while performing activities of daily living.Which of the following best describes pursed-lip breathing?

A) Inhaling slowly through pursed lips, then exhaling through the nose
B) Inhaling through pursed lips, then exhaling slowly through the nose
C) Inhaling slowly through the nose, then exhaling through pursed lips
D) Inhaling through the nose, then exhaling slowly through pursed lips

Answer 3

D
Pursed-lip breathing,which is a breathing pattern of inhaling through the nose and slowly exhaling through pursed lips,can also help decrease dyspnea and respiratory rate.