A respiratory therapist is assisting a patient who has an Sp…
A respiratory therapist is assisting a patient who has an SpO2 of 85% while receiving oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 12 L/min flow. Laboratory results show a WBC of 10,000 cu mm and an Hb of 8.1 g/dL. The patient has a DNI order and an advanced directive that indicates no blood administration. Which of the following can be done to maximize arterial oxygenation?
Read DetailsA 48-year-old patient with an extensive smoking history usua…
A 48-year-old patient with an extensive smoking history usually coughs out about 20 mL of sputum every day. The patient developed a “chest cold” 4 days ago and has noticed increased shortness of breath and thicker secretions. What should be done at this time?
Read DetailsA 28-year-old male is brought to the emergency department (E…
A 28-year-old male is brought to the emergency department (ED) as a victim of a stabbing from a gang confrontation. As the patient arrives in the ED, the first responders report that the patient has had a sudden onset of tachypnea. The respiratory therapist notices absent breath sounds on the left side. What additional evaluation should the therapist immediately perform?
Read DetailsWhile transporting an orally intubated, mechanically ventila…
While transporting an orally intubated, mechanically ventilated patient to the cardiac catheterization lab, the respiratory therapist notices the security device on the ET tube has become disconnected. To quickly evaluate for proper positioning of the ET tube, the therapist should
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