Adult CCRN-PCCN Certification Practice Test with Complete Solutions

One day following posterior spinal fusion surgery a 35 year old female suddenly exhibits restlessness, labored breathing and acute chest pain. Her heart rate is 122/min., she is afebrile, and exhibits slightly diminished breath sounds on the right side. The findings described above should lead the nurse to suspect that the patient has developed: A. A spontaneous pneumothorax B. A pulmonary embolus C. Aspiration pneumonia D. A pleural effusion - CORRECT B. A pulmonary embolus One day following posterior spinal fusion surgery a 35 year old female suddenly exhibits restlessness, labored breathing and acute chest pain. Her heart rate is 122/min., she is afebrile, and exhibits slightly diminished breath sounds on the right side. Which of the following will most likely confirm the patient's diagnosis? A. Pulmonary radioisotope scan B. Echocardiogram