Cardiopulmonary Unit 36 Flashcards

Front

A patient with congestive heart failure reports shortness of breath while lying flat. What is the CNA's best first action?
A. Place the patient in Trendelenburg position
B. Help the patient into Fowler’s or high Fowler’s position
C. Offer water to calm anxiety
D. Take vital signs immediately

Back

B. Help the patient into Fowler’s or high Fowler’s position

Explanation: Elevating the head allows better lung expansion and helps ease breathing.

Front

Which of the following should be reported immediately when caring for a patient with COPD?
A. Occasional dry cough
B. Use of accessory muscles while breathing
C. Request for water
D. Slightly warm hands

Back

B. Use of accessory muscles while breathing

Explanation: This signals respiratory distress and should be reported right away.

Front

Why is oxygen considered a medication?
A. It is prescribed and requires dosage regulation
B. It can be used freely without danger
C. It is given only in hospitals
D. It is not absorbed by the body

Back

A. It is prescribed and requires dosage regulation

Explanation: Oxygen must be administered exactly as ordered due to its powerful physiological effects.

Front

Which finding in a patient with pneumonia should be reported?

A. Slightly pink sputum
B. Increased temperature and productive cough
C. Deep sleep
D. Appetite improvement

Back

B. Increased temperature and productive cough

Explanation: These could indicate a worsening infection and require evaluation.

Front

What is the most effective non-medical intervention a CNA can offer for a patient with chronic bronchitis?
A. Increase exercise
B. Encourage fluid intake and monitor sputum
C. Massage chest area
D. Decrease conversations to limit oxygen use

Back

B. Encourage fluid intake and monitor sputum
Explanation: Fluids help thin secretions and aid in clearing mucus.

Front

What is a common emotional effect of cardiopulmonary disorders that CNAs should watch for?
A. Anger and aggression
B. Lethargy only
C. Fear and anxiety about breathing
D. Euphoria

Back

C. Fear and anxiety about breathing

Explanation: Difficulty breathing can cause anxiety and panic, which impacts care.

Front

A patient using a nasal cannula complains of skin irritation behind the ears. What is the best CNA response?
A. Remove oxygen briefly
B. Apply padding to relieve pressure
C. Tighten the tubing
D. Decrease flow rate

Back

B. Apply padding to relieve pressure

Explanation: Padding protects skin breakdown caused by friction from tubing.

Front

When should the CNA notify the nurse for a patient with a history of heart failure? A. Patient has cold feet
B. Patient’s legs are elevated
C. Patient develops swelling in ankles and has difficulty breathing

Back

C. Patient develops swelling in ankles and has difficulty breathing

Explanation: These are signs of fluid overload and worsening heart failure.

Front

Which behavior is unsafe for a patient receiving oxygen?
A. Using a humidifier
B. Wearing cotton clothing
C. Applying Vaseline to lips
D. Staying in a well-ventilated area

Back

C. Applying Vaseline to lips

Explanation: Vaseline is petroleum-based and can ignite near oxygen.

Front

Why is it important to observe sputum color in patients with lung disorders?
A. It reveals hydration level
B. It indicates lung function decline
C. It may suggest infection or worsening condition
D. It affects heart rate

Back

C. It may suggest infection or worsening condition

Explanation: Changes in color, amount, or consistency should be reported.