While performing a patient-ventilator check, the respiratory therapist notes that the patient suddenly develops signs of severe respiratory distress. The low O2 saturation alarm on the pulse oximeter activates. Breath sounds are equal bilaterally with no change from previous findings. The respiratory therapist disconnects the patient and performs manual ventilation using 100% O2. A suction catheter passes through the patient’s ET without difficulty; however, the patient’s distress continues and O2 saturation remains low. The therapist notes that the capnometer reading for PetCO2 has changed from its previous value of 35 mm Hg to 27 mm Hg. Arterial blood gas analysis indicates that the PaCO2 has not changed but the PaO2 decreased to 20 mm Hg. The P(a–et)CO2 has increased from 6 to 14 mm Hg. What is the cause of the patient’s respiratory distress?

A mechanically ventilated patient with COPD is receiving partial ventilatory support with PSV. The respiratory therapist notes a sudden rise at the end of each breath on the pressure–time graphic. What action should the respiratory therapist take at this time?

Reduction of preload and afterload is important in the management of which of the following?

The graphic below for a patient receiving mechanical ventilation shows which of the following conditions?

Using the MAR and the label provided, calculate how much cephalexin the nurse will administer per dose?  _____ mL (Enter the numerical answer only.)   Electronic Medical Record – MAR Name: Juice, Orange Age: 48 DOB: 2/1/XX     MR # 21132 Allergies: NKDA Room # 200 Admit Date: 1/15/XX     Scheduled Medications Time Drug Name Dose Route Frequency Administration 0900 Cephalexin Oral Susp 0.5 g PO q12h    

A client has an order for Ofirmev 50 mL to infuse over 30 minutes for pain.  How many mL/hr should the IV pump be programmed for? ______ mL/hr   (Enter numeric answer only)

Order: Cefadyl 1,000 mg IM daily Directions on label: Add 1 mL sterile saline for reconstitution for a final dosage concentration of 500mg/mL How many mL will you administer per dose? _______ mL   (Enter numeric answer only)

Your patient has orders for Fragmin 12,500 international units (IU) subcutaneously 2 hours before surgery for a total hip replacement.  You have the following available:     How many mL will you administer? _______ mL   (Enter numeric answer only)   

Order: Dilantin capsules 0.3 g PO tid   Available:   How many capsules will you give per dose? ________ caps (Enter numeric answer only)

Order: Methylprednisolone 30 mg IM q6h Available: How many mL will you administer per dose? ________ mL   (Enter numeric answer only)