The nurse is caring for a client with bacterial pneumonia who has pleurisy. Which of the following actions should the nurse implement to promote airway clearance?
A)Assist the client to splint the chest when coughing.
B)Educate the client about the need for fluid restrictions.
C)Encourage the client to wear the nasal oxygen cannula.
D)Instruct the client on the pursed lip breathing technique.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Coughing is less painful and more likely to be effective when the client splints the chest during coughing. Fluids should be encouraged to help liquefy secretions. Nasal oxygen will improve gas exchange, but will not improve airway clearance. Pursed lip breathing is used to improve gas exchange in clients with COPD, but will not improve airway clearance.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with Bacterial Pneumonia