A patient is receiving full ventilatory support with volume ventilation. At 0700 the respiratory therapist observes the pressure-, volume-, and flow-time scalars shown in "A" below
Six hours later the respiratory therapist observes the scalars shown in "B." The most appropriate action to take is which of the following?
a. Increase the positive end-expiratory pres-sure (PEEP) level.
b. Check the circuit for a leak.
c. Administer a bronchodilator.
d. Switch to pressure ventilation.
ANS: C
All three scalars show signs of increased airway resistance. The pressure-time scalar shows an in-crease in peak inspiratory pressure (PIP). The volume-time scalar shows that it is taking longer for the patient to exhale all the volume. The flow-time scalar shows that the expiratory flow is very slow and takes a long time to rise to the zero baseline.
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You are immobilizing a 4-year-old-boy on a long spine board. Which of the following would be appropriate when performing this intervention?
A) Do not apply the chest strap across the thorax. B) Place padding between his shoulders and the spine board. C) Secure the chest and legs to the board after the head. D) Place a pillow under the neck to keep the airway open.
The Certified Coding Specialist–Physician (CCS-P) demonstrates expertise in all of the following areas EXCEPT:
a. group practices. b. inpatient hospitals. c. specialty clinics. d. solo practice offices.