A Patient with ARDS Is on a Mechanical Ventilator and Is

question 31

Multiple Choice

A patient with ARDS is on a mechanical ventilator and is becoming increasingly restless with a heart rate of 128 bpm. The SaO₂ is 88% and the ventilator settings are FiO₂ 50%; PEEP 8 cm; AC 10 with a total respiratory rate of 30; and a tidal volume of 700 mL. There are coarse rhonchi audible in all lung fields. Which action should the nurse take?

• A) Hyperoxygenate with 100% oxygen and suction the patient.
• B) Administer the ordered neuromuscular blockade medications.
• C) Increase the FiO₂ to 60% and tidal volume to 750 mL for 2 minutes.
• D) Increase the PEEP to 10 cm and sedate the patient.

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Definitions:

Inappropriate Affect

Display of emotions that are unsuited to the situation; a symptom of schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia

A mental disorder characterized by distorted thinking, perceptions, emotions, language, self-awareness, and behavior.

Laughs

An audible expression of amusement or joy, often a physiological response to humor or happiness.

Disturbances in Volition

Alterations or impairments in the ability to make decisions or initiate actions willingly, often seen in psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia.