Adult CCRN/PCCN Certification Practice Test | 50 Questions with 100% Correct Answers | Updated & Verified

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 - 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 C. Cardiac enzyme studies D. Chest x-ray and arterial blood gases - A. Pulmonary radioisotope scan