Question

a nurse is reinforcing teaching for a client who has pneumonia about preventative strategies. which of the following should the nurse include regarding prevention of pneumonia?
changing position every four hours routinely
immunization for influenza and pneumococcus
albuterol treatments twice a day
shallow respirations

Explanation:

• Changing position every four hours: While repositioning is good for preventing complications like pressure ulcers, changing position every 2 hours (not 4) is more relevant for promoting lung expansion and preventing atelectasis (a risk factor for pneumonia). So this option is incorrect.
• Immunization for influenza and pneumococcus: Influenza virus and Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) are common causes of pneumonia. Immunization against these pathogens (e.g., annual flu shot and pneumococcal vaccines) can significantly reduce the risk of developing pneumonia. This is a key preventive strategy.
• Albuterol treatments twice a day: Albuterol is a bronchodilator used for treating conditions like asthma or COPD exacerbations (to relieve bronchospasm). It is not a preventive measure for pneumonia.
• Shallow respirations: Shallow respirations can lead to ineffective gas exchange and increase the risk of atelectasis (collapsed alveoli) which can predispose to pneumonia. Deep breathing exercises (not shallow respirations) are recommended.

Answer:

Immunization for influenza and pneumococcus.