A postoperative patient has a nursing diagnosis of ineffective airway clearance. The nurse determines that interventions for this nursing diagnosis have been successful if which is observed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

One characteristic of ineffective airway clearance is the presence of adventitious breath sounds such as crackles,so clear breath sounds are an indication of resolution of the problem. Spirometer use and increased fluid intake are interventions for ineffective airway clearance but may not always improve breath sounds. Elevated temperature may occur with atelectasis,but a normal or near-normal temperature does not always indicate resolution of respiratory problems.

A Postoperative Patient Has a Nursing Diagnosis of Ineffective Airway