A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease requires intubation.After the physician intubates the patient, the nurse auscultates for breath sounds.Breath sounds are questionable in this patient.Which action would best assist in determining endotracheal tube placement in this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Although a stat chest radiography examination would be helpful, it has a long turnaround time, and the patient's respiratory status can deteriorate quickly.An end-tidal CO₂ monitor gives an immediate response, and the tube can then be reinserted without delay if incorrectly placed.The other tests are not for endotracheal tube placement.

A Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Requires Intubation