A nurse is caring for a child who has cystic fibrosis and requires postural drainage. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
A) Perform the procedure prior to meals: This is the correct action. Postural drainage should ideally be performed before meals to minimize the risk of vomiting and to ensure the child is comfortable during and after the procedure. B) Perform the procedure twice each day: While frequency may vary based on the child's needs, it is often recommended to perform postural drainage more frequently than twice a day, depending on the severity of the condition and the child's specific respiratory needs. C) Administer a bronchodilator after the procedure: Bronchodilators are typically administered before postural drainage to help open the airways and improve the effectiveness of the drainage. Giving them after the procedure is not standard practice. D) Hold hand flat to perform percussions on the child: The correct technique for performing chest percussion is to cup the hand slightly, creating a pocket of air that helps to effectively dislodge mucus. A flat hand can be less effective and may not provide the necessary impact.