Question

After a thoracotomy, which interventions will the nurse initiate to reduce the risk of acute respiratory distress?

A) Encourage deep breathing and coughing exercises
B) Limit fluid intake to prevent pulmonary edema
C) Administer pain medication only as needed to avoid respiratory depression
D) Place the client in a supine position to optimize lung expansion

Answer 1

The nurse will encourage deep breathing and coughing exercises and administer pain medication to facilitate these exercises, while avoiding excessive respiratory depression. Patient positioning is also essential but should be tailored to the individual's needs rather than placing them in a supine position. Therefore, the correct option is a.

Step-by-step explanation:

After a thoracotomy, to reduce the risk of acute respiratory distress, the nurse will initiate several interventions. One of the primary interventions is to encourage deep breathing and coughing exercises. These exercises help in preventing atelectasis and facilitate the clearing of secretions, which is crucial for optimal lung function post-surgery. Furthermore, administering pain medication is essential to allow the patient to perform these exercises effectively, but should be balanced to avoid excessive respiratory depression.

Another crucial point is positioning; while placing the client in a supine position might be counterproductive, positioning the patient to optimize lung expansion, often involves semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position. Although the choice of position needs to consider individual circumstances and surgical specifics. Limiting fluid intake may be part of a broader strategy to prevent fluid overload but is not a primary intervention for reducing the risk of respiratory distress and would need to be carefully balanced with the patient's hydration needs.