A child on a ventilator suddenly desaturates.Which nursing action is the priority?
A) Assess for displacement of the tube.
B) Assess for obstruction of the tube.
C) Ensure the ventilator is functioning properly.
D) Listen to lung sounds for pneumothorax.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a mechanically ventilated patient suddenly desaturates (oxygen saturation drops),the nurse responds using the DOPE mnemonic (displaced tube,obstructed tube,pneumothorax,equipment problem).The most common cause is a displaced tube,so the nurse should assess this first.

A Child on a Ventilator Suddenly Desaturates