Author Question: A client recently fractured his spinal cord at the C3 level and is at great risk for developing ... (Read 32 times)

jCorn1234 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A client recently fractured his spinal cord at the C3 level and is at great risk for developing pneumonia primarily because the:

1. Resulting paralysis immobilizes him, and secretions will increase in his lungs
2. Innervation to the phrenic nerve is absent, preventing chest expansion
3. Resulting abnormal chest shape disallows efficient ventilatory movement
4. Trauma decreases the ability of his red blood cells to carry oxygen

Question 2

The client has experienced a myocardial infarction resulting in damage to the left ventricle. A possible complication the client may experience that the nurse is alert to is:

1. Jugular neck vein distention
2. Pulmonary congestion
3. Peripheral edema
4. Liver enlargement

Jody Vaughn · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: 2
Cervical trauma at C3 to C5 can result in paralysis of the phrenic nerve, preventing chest expan-sion. Although the increase in lung secretions as a result of immobility is a risk factor, the client's greatest risk is related to the level of his fracture. There is no mention of an abnormal chest shape. This client's greatest risk for developing pneumonia is related to the level of his fracture. If the client were anemic as a result of blood loss from trauma, his oxygen-carrying capacity of blood would be decreased. There is no mention of excessive blood loss, nor would this place him at great risk for developing pneumonia.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: 2
Pulmonary congestion may be experienced in left-sided heart failure. Jugular neck vein distention is characteristic of right-sided heart failure. Peripheral edema is characteristic of right-sided heart failure. Hepatomegaly (liver enlargement) is characteristic of right-sided heart failure.