Final answer:
The planning care for a mechanically ventilated client includes regular endotracheal suction assessments, checking ventilator settings, keeping the bed elevated, and performing oral hygiene with chlorhexidine as per institutional policy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the planning of care for a client who is receiving mechanical ventilation. Careful consideration and regular checks are vital in the management of a patient on mechanical ventilation. Aspects like suctioning, ventilator settings, bed elevation, and oral hygiene all play pivotal roles in patient care.
- Assess the client to determine the need for endotracheal suction at least every 4 hours to maintain airway patency and prevent accumulation of secretions.
- It is crucial to check the ventilator settings regularly to ensure that the machine is functioning at the prescribed parameters. While checking every 12 hours may be appropriate for stable settings, more frequent checks may be required for any changes or patient instability.
- Maintaining the head of the client's bed elevated 30 degrees helps in reducing the risk of aspiration and ventilator-associated pneumonia.
- Oral hygiene with chlorhexidine can be beneficial to reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia, and it is generally recommended to be performed every 2 to 4 hours based on the patient's condition and institutional protocols.
Inspired by safety protocols in aviation, Dr. Pronovost's checklist for ICU doctors emphasizes the importance of protocol adherence and nurse empowerment to speak up for patient safety. This exemplifies the collaborative approach towards patient care in critical settings.