Question

Which complication does the nurse expect when a patient with fractured ribs is wearing a binder on the chest?

1.Atelectasis
2.Chylothorax
3.Hemopneumothorax
4.Pulmonary embolism

Answer 1

A nurse should expect atelectasis as a complication when a patient with fractured ribs is wearing a chest binder, due to the reduced lung expansion and air exchange.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient with fractured ribs is wearing a chest binder, atelectasis is a complication that a nurse might expect. Atelectasis refers to the partial or complete collapse of a part of the lungs, which can occur when there is inadequate chest expansion due to pain or limitation from the binder. The compression caused by a chest binder can prevent adequate lung inflation, leading to areas of lung collapse. This can impair the patient's ability to clear secretions and lead to poor air exchange and potential infection, much like the concerns with immobility after a hip fracture. Without effective breathing and clearance of secretions, there is an increased risk of pneumonia or other respiratory complications.