A patient has a pleural effusion related to her pneumonia. Which ...

[geodog55]

A patient has a pleural effusion related to her pneumonia. Which of the following should the respiratory therapist recommend to treat the pleural effusion?
 
  a. Hyperinflation therapy
  b. Supplemental oxygen
  c. Thoracentesis
  d. Percussion and postural drainage

Question 2

A pulmonary embolism causes which of the following major pathologic and structural changes in the lungs?
 
  1. Alveolar consolidation
  2. Mucosal edema
  3. Alveolar atelectasis
  4. Pleural friction rub
  a. 1, 3
  b. 2, 4
  c. 2, 3, 4
  d. 1, 2, 3, 4

[memslove]

Answer to Question 1

C
The thoracentesis procedure involves placing a needle through the chest wall to withdraw the pleural effusion fluid. This allows the lung to reexpand. Although the other listed options may be used in the care of a patient with pneumonia, they will not help to remove the pleural fluid.

Answer to Question 2

A
After a pulmonary embolism, alveolar consolidation and atelectasis can occur. Mucosal edema is associated with asthma. Pleural friction rub is associated with an empyema.