Question

The nurse is performing a morning assessment. The patient is curled on her side with the bed flat, and the nurse notes breath sounds are absent at the lung bases. Which of the following would be an appropriate nursing action?

Answer 1

An appropriate nursing action would be to notify the healthcare provider immediately.

Step-by-step explanation:

An appropriate nursing action when the nurse notes absent breath sounds at the lung bases in a patient who is curled on her side with the bed flat is to notify the healthcare provider immediately.

Absent breath sounds at the lung bases can indicate possible lung collapse or obstruction, which requires prompt medical attention. The patient may need further assessment, such as a chest radiograph, to determine the cause of the absent breath sounds and appropriate treatment.

By notifying the healthcare provider, the nurse ensures that the patient receives timely and appropriate medical intervention. Early detection and intervention can help prevent complications and promote optimal patient outcomes.