Which action by a new registered nurse indicates a need for further education regarding mechanical ventilation?

Which action by a new registered nurse indicates a need for further education regarding mechanical ventilation?

• A. The RN increases the FIO2 to 100% before suctioning.
• B. The RN secures a bite block in place using adhesive tape.
• C. The RN asks for assistance to resecure the endotracheal tube.
• D. The RN positions the patient with the head of bed at 10 degrees.

Answer: (D)

The choice indicating a need for further education is when the new registered nurse positions the patient with the head of the bed at 10 degrees. In patients receiving mechanical ventilation, especially those who are critically ill or at risk for developing complications such as ventilator-associated pneumonia, it is recommended to elevate the head of the bed to at least 30 to 45 degrees. This position helps reduce the risk of aspiration, promotes better lung mechanics, and improves oxygenation by enhancing ventilation-perfusion matching. In contrast, the other actions mentioned align with established practices in mechanical ventilation. Increasing the FIO2 to 100% before suctioning is a common practice to optimize oxygenation during the procedure. Using a bite block to secure the endotracheal tube is appropriate to prevent accidental extubation. Seeking assistance to resecure the endotracheal tube demonstrates a good understanding of the need for teamwork and patient safety. Each of these actions supports best practices in managing patients on mechanical ventilation, while a low elevation of the head of bed does not.

The choice indicating a need for further education is when the new registered nurse positions the patient with the head of the bed at 10 degrees. In patients receiving mechanical ventilation, especially those who are critically ill or at risk for developing complications such as ventilator-associated pneumonia, it is recommended to elevate the head of the bed to at least 30 to 45 degrees. This position helps reduce the risk of aspiration, promotes better lung mechanics, and improves oxygenation by enhancing ventilation-perfusion matching.

In contrast, the other actions mentioned align with established practices in mechanical ventilation. Increasing the FIO2 to 100% before suctioning is a common practice to optimize oxygenation during the procedure. Using a bite block to secure the endotracheal tube is appropriate to prevent accidental extubation. Seeking assistance to resecure the endotracheal tube demonstrates a good understanding of the need for teamwork and patient safety. Each of these actions supports best practices in managing patients on mechanical ventilation, while a low elevation of the head of bed does not.