When Assessing a 75-Year-Old Patient Who Has Asthma,the Nurse Notes

question 49

Multiple Choice

When assessing a 75-year-old patient who has asthma,the nurse notes that he assumes a tripod position,leaning forward with arms braced on the chair.On the basis of this observation,the nurse should:

• A)Assume that the patient is eager and interested in participating in the interview.
• B)Evaluate the patient for abdominal pain, which may be exacerbated in the sitting position.
• C)Assume that the patient is having difficulty breathing and assist him to a supine position.
• D)Recognize that a tripod position is often used when a patient is having respiratory difficulties.

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Definitions:

Residual Barium

Barium remaining in the intestinal tract following evacuation at the completion of X-ray studies.

Intestinal Tract

A major part of the digestive system, consisting of a series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the stomach to the anus.

X-Ray Studies

Medical imaging tests that use X-rays to view the internal structures of the body, helping in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Radiopaque

Impenetrable to the X-ray or other forms of radiation.