A patient recovering from thoracic surgery is demonstrating evidence of impaired oxygenation and ventilation.His breathing is shallow and his oxygen saturation is dropping.Which nursing intervention is most suited to addressing this issue?
A)Teach the patient to use the incentive spirometer every 1 to 2 hours.
B)Suction as necessary.
C)Splint the chest when coughing.
D)Encourage fluids up to 2.5 liters per day.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Teaching the patient to use the incentive spirometer helps to promote deep breathing, which can improve ventilation and oxygenation. Suctioning may be necessary to clear secretions, but it does not directly address shallow breathing or oxygen saturation. Splinting the chest during coughing can provide support, but it does not directly address the issue of impaired oxygenation and ventilation. Encouraging fluids can help with hydration and secretion clearance, but it does not directly address the issue of impaired oxygenation and ventilation.

A Patient Recovering from Thoracic Surgery Is Demonstrating Evidence of Impaired