Which is a potential risk of placing a patient in a semi-Fowler's position?

a. Hearing loss
b. Air embolism
c. Urinary retention
d. Hypercapnia

ANS: B
Air embolism can occur if the patient is sitting upright during a procedure. The brain is higher than the heart in this position. Venous pressure is lower than atmospheric pressure and can allow for entry of air into the heart via an open venous channel.

Health Professions

You might also like to view...

The speech/language area located in the frontal lobe is:

a. Broca's expressive language area b. Wernicke's receptive language area

Health Professions

Myasthenia gravis results in:

a. Progressive muscle weakness and paralysis b. Loss of memory and intellect c. Progressive hypertonicity of the facial muscles d. Peripheral neuropathy

Health Professions