Author Question: A client is diagnosed with fractured ribs. Which of the following should the nurse instruct this ... (Read 94 times)

lracut11 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A client is diagnosed with fractured ribs. Which of the following should the nurse instruct this client?

1. Engage in routine activities of daily living after taking pain medication.
2. Splint the rib cage when deep breathing and coughing.
3. Restrict fluids.
4. Stay on bed rest until the ribs heal.

Question 2

A client's chest tube has been accidentally dislodged while the client was being transferred from the bed to a stretcher. Which of the following should the nurse do to help this client?

1. Cover the site with occlusive petroleum jelly gauze and tape to four sides.
2. Cover the site with occlusive petroleum jelly gauze and tape to three sides.
3. Cover the site with occlusive petroleum jelly gauze and tape to two sides.
4. Cover the site with occlusive petroleum jelly gauze and tape to one side.

kbennett34 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

2
Nursing care for a client recovering from fractured ribs include splinting the rib cage when deep breathing and coughing. The client should be encouraged to avoid dangerous activities when taking pain medication. Fluids should not be restricted. Bed rest would not be necessary for fractured ribs.

Answer to Question 2

2
In the case of accidental dislodging of the chest tube, the site should be covered with occlusive petroleum jelly gauze and taped on three sides to prevent the development of a tension pneumothorax. If the gauze is taped on all four sides, the client can develop a tension pneumothorax. Taping the gauze on one or two sides will not be effective to support this client and should not be done.