Author Question: During calibration of a transcutaneous monitor the respiratory therapist notices a signal drift. The ... (Read 51 times)

@Brianna17 · **on:** Jul 16, 2018

During calibration of a transcutaneous monitor the respiratory therapist notices a signal drift. The respiratory therapist should do which of the following?

a. Increase the probe temperature.
b. Replace the monitor and call for repair.
c. Add more electrolyte gel to the patient's skin.
d. Change the electrolyte and sensor's mem-brane.

Question 2

An energy expenditure (EE) of 60 kcal/hr/m2 for an adult is indicative of which of the following conditions?

a. Burns
b. Sedation
c. Starvation
d. Hypothermia

raili21 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 16, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
A signal drift on a transcutaneous monitor should be addressed by changing the electrode and sensor's membrane. The electrode and the sensor's membrane should be changed weekly due to the evaporation of the electrolyte solution caused by the heating of the electrode. Increasing the probe temperature may cause patient burns if it is over 45 C. The signal drift does not necessari-ly mean that the monitor itself needs to be taken out of service. Adding more gel to the patient's skin will help with gas diffusion during measurement only.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
An energy expenditure (EE) of 30-40 kcal/hr/m2 is normal for an adult. The EE of 60 kcal/hr/m2 is greater than 120 of predicted and is considered a hypermetabolic state. Burns create a hy-permetabolic state. Starvation, sedation, and hypothermia create hypometabolic states.