The nurse planning care for a patient after severe head trauma ...

[big1devin]

The nurse planning care for a patient after severe head trauma and long-term unresponsiveness considers which effect of immobility affecting the lungs? Select all that apply.
 
  a. Atelectasis
  b. Hyperventilation
  c. Pooled secretions
  d. Reactive airway
  e. Hypocarbia

Question 2

Which of the following actions represent proper body mechanics for nurses providing care as well as teaching patients about safe body movements? Select all that apply.
 
  a. Stand with the body in alignment and erect posture.
  b. Bend at the waist to lift heavy objects from the floor.
  c. Use a wide base of support with your feet at shoulder width.
  d. Keep objects close to your body when carrying them.

[mathjasmine]

Answer to Question 1

A, C
Immobility decreases the strength of muscles involved in chest wall expansion, which also affects ventilation. The depth of respirations decreases (hypoventilation), and secretions pool in the airways. The ability to effectively cough and expectorate secretions diminishes as muscle tone of the abdomen and chest decrease. As a result, pooled secretions block air passages and alveoli, decrease oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange (hypoxema and hypercarbia), and often lead to atelectasis (collapse of air sacs), or pneumonia. The smooth muscle in the mainstem airway is not reactive as it would be for the patient with asthma, for example.

Answer to Question 2

A, C, D
Proper body mechanics involves good body alignment, erect posture, and a wide base of support. To prevent back injury resulting from reaching and straining muscles, carry objects close to the trunk. Bending at the waist to lift objects uses the back muscles and increases the risk of injury. Instead, squat to lower your center of gravity, and use your leg muscles for lifting.

[big1devin]

TYSM

[gcook]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it