A Patient Suffering from Postoperative Complications Has Been Receiving Mechanical

question 22

Multiple Choice

A patient suffering from postoperative complications has been receiving mechanical ventilation for 6 days with a volume ventilator. A heat-moisture exchanger (HME) is providing control over humidification and airway temperature. Over the past 24 hours, the patient's secretions have decreased in quantity but are thicker and more purulent. Which of the following actions would you suggest at this time?

• A)Replace the HME.
• B)Switch over to a heated wick humidifier.
• C)Administer acetylcysteine every 2 hours via the nebulizer.
• D)Increase the frequency of suctioning.

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Definitions:

DTI

Diffusion Tensor Imaging, a type of MRI that maps the diffusion of water molecules in tissue, particularly useful in brain connectivity studies.

Cerebral Voltammetry

An analytical method used to measure neurotransmitter levels in the brain, helping in the study of neurological diseases and brain function.

MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a non-invasive imaging technology that produces three-dimensional detailed anatomical images, useful for diagnosing a variety of conditions.

CT Scanning

An imaging technique that uses computer-processed combinations of many X-ray measurements taken from different angles to create cross-sectional images of the body.