The postoperative cardiac surgery client has an accumulation of ...

[washai]

The postoperative cardiac surgery client has an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space 2 weeks after surgery. Which term will the nurse use to explain this condition to the client and family?
 
  1. Pneumothorax
  2. Hemothorax
  3. Pleural effusion
  4. Pulmonary edema

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a client being weaned from the ventilator. When performing a spontaneous breathing trial, which item is not a priority assessment?
 
  1. Mental status
  2. Oxygen saturation
  3. Vital signs
  4. Ability to speak

[frre432]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 3

Fluid in the pleural space that is not blood is a pleural effusion. A pneumothorax is air accumulation in the pleural space, hemothorax is blood accumulation, and pulmonary edema is fluid in the alveoli.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 4

The client might have a fenestrated tube or speaking valve that allows the client to communicate, but if neither of these is in place, the client would not speak. The ability to speak during a weaning trial is not as important as mental status, oxygen saturation, and vital signs, which indicate the client's tolerance of being removed from the ventilator.