Question

The nurse is caring for a client on a ventilator when the high-pressure alarm sounds. What actions are most appropriate?

a) Increase the ventilator rate.
b) Assess the client's lung sounds.
c) Administer a bronchodilator.
d) Disconnect and reconnect the ventilator tubing.

Answer 1

The most appropriate action when the high-pressure alarm sounds on a ventilator is to assess the client's lung sounds.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate action when the high-pressure alarm sounds on a ventilator is b) Assess the client's lung sounds. This is because the high-pressure alarm indicates a potential issue with the client's lungs and assessing their lung sounds can help identify any problems or complications. Increasing the ventilator rate (a) may not address the underlying issue and can potentially worsen the situation.

Administering a bronchodilator (c) may be appropriate in certain cases, but it should not be the first action taken when the high-pressure alarm sounds. Disconnecting and reconnecting the ventilator tubing (d) can disrupt the client's ventilation and should only be done if necessary.