NUR 2206 Exam 2

NUR 2206 Exam 2: A Comprehensive Guide to Pulmonary Embolism, Atelectasis, and Clotting Disorders

The NUR 2206 Exam 2 for 2026 delves into critical nursing concepts, with a pronounced emphasis on pulmonary embolism (PE), atelectasis, and clotting disorders. Mastery of these topics is imperative for nursing professionals, as they are frequently assessed in examinations and are pivotal in clinical practice.

Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations

A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, typically caused by a blood clot that travels to the lungs from the legs or other parts of the body (deep vein thrombosis). This obstruction impedes blood flow to lung tissue, leading to hypoxia and potential cardiovascular collapse.

Clinical Manifestations:

• Dyspnea: Sudden onset of shortness of breath is a hallmark symptom.
• Chest Pain: Often sharp and pleuritic, exacerbated by deep breathing.
• Tachycardia: Elevated heart rate as the body compensates for reduced oxygenation.
• Hemoptysis: Coughing up blood, indicative of lung tissue damage.

Risk Factors:

• Immobility: Prolonged periods of inactivity, such as extended travel or bed rest.
• Surgical Procedures: Particularly orthopedic surgeries, which increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis.
• Medical Conditions: Heart disease, cancer, and clotting disorders elevate the risk.

Atelectasis: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations

Atelectasis refers to the collapse of a portion of the lung, resulting in reduced gas exchange and hypoxia. It can be classified as obstructive, non-obstructive, or compressive, depending on the underlying cause.

Clinical Manifestations:

• Dyspnea: Difficulty breathing due to reduced lung volume.
• Cough: Persistent cough, often with sputum production.
• Tachypnea: Increased respiratory rate as the body attempts to compensate.
• Decreased Breath Sounds: Diminished or absent breath sounds over the affected area.

Risk Factors:

• Postoperative States: Especially after abdominal or thoracic surgeries.
• Immobility: Prolonged bed rest can lead to atelectasis.
• Obstruction: Foreign bodies or mucus plugs can block airways.

Clotting Disorders: Understanding and Management

Clotting disorders encompass a range of conditions that affect the blood's ability to clot properly, leading to either excessive bleeding or thrombosis.

Common Clotting Disorders:

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Formation of a clot in a deep vein, often in the legs.
• Hemophilia: A genetic disorder where blood doesn't clot properly.
• Vitamin K Deficiency: Impaired clotting due to insufficient vitamin K.

Clinical Manifestations:

• Unusual Bleeding: Easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding from cuts.
• Swelling and Pain: Particularly in the extremities, indicative of thrombosis.
• Shortness of Breath: In cases where a clot travels to the lungs (PE).

Management Strategies:

• Anticoagulant Therapy: Medications like heparin or warfarin to prevent clot formation.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise and smoking cessation to reduce risk.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests to assess clotting function and adjust therapy.

NCLEX Preparation: Focus on Atelectasis and Clotting Disorders

The NCLEX examination frequently assesses knowledge related to atelectasis and clotting disorders. Familiarity with common questions can enhance preparedness.

Sample NCLEX Questions:

1. Atelectasis:

   A nurse is caring for a postoperative patient who has developed atelectasis. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement to promote lung expansion?

   • A) Encourage the patient to cough and deep breathe every 2 hours.
   • B) Administer prescribed sedatives to promote rest.
   • C) Restrict fluid intake to prevent aspiration.
   • D) Place the patient in a supine position to facilitate lung expansion.

   Correct Answer: A) Encourage the patient to cough and deep breathe every 2 hours.

2. Clotting Disorders:

   A patient with a history of deep vein thrombosis is prescribed warfarin. Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor to assess the effectiveness of this medication?

   • A) Platelet count
   • B) Prothrombin time (PT)
   • C) Hemoglobin level
   • D) Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)

   Correct Answer: B) Prothrombin time (PT)

Utilizing Study Resources

To augment preparation for the NUR 2206 Exam 2, leveraging comprehensive study materials is advantageous. Platforms like Quizlet offer flashcards and practice questions on topics such as pulmonary embolism and atelectasis. For instance, the "Pulmonary Embolism NCLEX Flashcards" set provides valuable insights into PE management.

Additionally, the University of Maryland School of Nursing provides a NextGen NCLEX Test Bank, which includes case studies and questions pertinent to respiratory and clotting disorders.

Below are sample Questions and Answers:

1. Circadian rhythms
Answer
- Biologic clocks regulate functions
- Complete a full cycle every 24 hours
- Affect fluctuations in VS, metabolism, mood, performance, etc.
- Affected by light/dark
- Some situations and conditions can cause disruption
2. Non-Rem Sleep
Answer
- 75% of total sleep
- Parasympathetic nervous system dominates (rest and digest)
3. NREM sleep characteristics
Answer
- DECREASED temp, HR, RR, BP, metabolic rate
- Profound restfulness
- Slow, rolling eye movements
- Muscle relaxation
- Decreased seizure threshold
4. NREM stage 1
Answer
- Transitional stage drift from wakefulness to sleep
- Lasts minutes (5% of total sleep)
- Person feels drowsy, relaxed
- Can be easily awakened
- Eyes roll from side to side
- Involuntary muscle jerking
- HR and RR decrease slightly