Question

the nurse has explained to the client that after their thoracotomy, it will be important to adhere to a coughing schedule. the client is concerned about being in too much pain to be able to cough. what would be an appropriate nursing intervention for this client? teach them postural drainage. teach them how to use a metered dose inhaler. teach them to use a mini - nebulizer. teach them how to perform huffing.

Explanation:

Postural drainage is for mobilizing secretions in specific lung areas, not for reducing pain during coughing. A metered - dose inhaler is used for delivering bronchodilators or steroids, not for pain - related coughing issues. A mini - nebulizer is for administering medications in aerosol form, not for this pain - related coughing problem. Huffing (also known as huff cough) is a technique that helps clear secretions with less pain than a normal cough, as it reduces the pressure and strain on the surgical site (after thoracotomy) while still promoting airway clearance. So teaching the client to perform huffing is the appropriate intervention.

Answer:

D. Teach them how to perform huffing.