Author Question: What is the major contributing factor in the development of postoperative atelectasis? a. ... (Read 59 times)

MirandaLo · **on:** Jul 16, 2018

What is the major contributing factor in the development of postoperative atelectasis?

a. Uncontrolled hyperpyrexia
b. Central nervous system overstimulation
c. Decreased cardiac output
d. Repetitive, shallow breathing

Question 2

Which of the following groups of patients is not at risk for developing postoperative atelectasis?

a. Those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
b. Those with a significant history of ciga-rette smoking
c. Those with impaired mucociliary clearance
d. Those with pneumonia

ghepp · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 16, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Most postoperative patients also have problems coughing effectively because of their reduced ability to take deep breaths.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
An ineffective cough impairs normal clearance mechanisms and increases the likelihood of re-tained secretions and gas absorption atelectasis in the patient with excessive mucus production. For this reason, patients with a history of lung disease that causes increased mucus production (e.g., chronic bronchitis) are most prone to develop complications in the postoperative period. Similarly, a significant history of cigarette smoking should alert the respiratory therapist to the high risk for respiratory complications with surgery.