Question

A client is transferred from the surgical suite to the PACU following oral surgery. While monitoring the client's vital signs, the nurse finds that the client's tongue has become swollen and is obstructing the airway. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A)Muscle rigidity
B)Use the head-tilt, chin-lift method to open the airway

Answer 1

The nurse should first use the head-tilt, chin-lift method to open the airway.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should first take the action of using the head-tilt, chin-lift method to open the airway in order to address the client's swollen tongue obstructing the airway. This technique involves gently tilting the head back and lifting the chin to help ensure proper airway alignment and prevent airway obstruction. By using this method, the nurse can immediately address the client's breathing difficulty caused by the swollen tongue.