Complications and Interventions
Complications and Interventions ( 5 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client receiving oxygen therapy via a nasal cannula. What is an important complication associated with prolonged use of a nasal cannula?
Prolonged use of a nasal cannula can lead to dryness and discomfort in the nasal passages due to the direct flow of oxygen. The nurse should provide humidification to prevent or alleviate dryness and nasal irritation.
Hypoventilation is not a common complication associated with the use of a nasal cannula, which is a low-flow oxygen delivery device.
Hyperoxygenation refers to an excessive supply of oxygen, which is not typically associated with nasal cannula use, as the flow rate is relatively low.
Increased risk of infection is not directly associated with nasal cannula use. However, proper infection control practices should be followed during oxygen therapy to minimize the risk of infection.
Answer: a. Dry nasal passages
Explanation: Prolonged use of a nasal cannula can lead to dryness and discomfort in the nasal passages due to the direct flow of oxygen. The nurse should provide humidification to prevent or alleviate dryness and nasal irritation.
Incorrect choices: b. Hypoventilation is not a common complication associated with the use of a nasal cannula, which is a low-flow oxygen delivery device.
c. Hyperoxygenation refers to an excessive supply of oxygen, which is not typically associated with nasal cannula use, as the flow rate is relatively low.
d. Increased risk of infection is not directly associated with nasal cannula use. However, proper infection control practices should be followed during oxygen therapy to minimize the risk of infection.