A post-operative adult male patient has been instructed in the proper use of an incentive spirometer. He demonstrates a good technique, cooperates well, and has clear breath sounds. Inspiratory capacity is 75% of predicted. The flow indicator remains flat during inspiration. The respiratory therapist should
A. instruct the patient to take fast deep breaths.
B. adjust the flow tubing.
C. replace the spirometer.
D. continue therapy.
Ans: C. Even though a respiratory therapist may believe that malfunctioning equipment is working "well enough", it is never appropriate to continue using broken or malfunctioning equipment. In this case the incentive spirometer should be replaced because it is not working properly.
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When asked, a young female with abdominal pain replies that she is not sure if she is pregnant or not. Which one of the following questions provides the best opportunity to determine if the patient is pregnant?
A) "Do you feel pressure in your belly area?" B) "When was your last menstrual period?" C) "Have you been vomiting in the morning?" D) "Does it feel like the last time you were pregnant?"
To take a Medicare appeal to the level of a decision by an administrative law judge, the claim must be for a minimum of:
$130. $150. $360. $500.