On admission, the client has signs and symptoms of pulmonary edema.
The nurse places the client in the most appropriate position for a client in pulmonary edema, which is:
A . High Fowler
B . Lying on the left side
C . Sitting in a chair
D . Supine with feet elevated
Answer: A
Explanation:
(A) High Fowler position decreases venous return to the heart and permits greater lung expansion so that oxygenation is maximized.
(B) Lying on the left side may improve perfusion to the left lung but does not promote lung expansion.
(C) Sitting in a chair will decrease venous return and promote maximal lung expansion.
However, clients with pulmonary edema can deteriorate quickly and require intubation and mechanical ventilation. If a client is sitting in achair when this deterioration happens, it will be difficult to intervene quickly.
(D) The supine with feet elevated position increases venous return and will worsen pulmonary edema.