Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) Practice Test

What are effective measures to treat atelectasis in patients?

1. Pain control and medication

2. Pain control and early ambulation

3. Deep breathing exercises and medication

4. Physical therapy and monitoring

The correct answer is: Pain control and early ambulation

The effective measures to treat atelectasis in patients revolve around addressing the underlying causes and promoting lung expansion. Early ambulation is crucial because it encourages movement, which facilitates deeper breathing and enhances overall lung function. This activity helps improve ventilation across the lung fields, reducing the likelihood of secretions building up and leading to further collapse of the alveoli. Pain control is also an essential component, as effective pain management encourages patients to take deeper breaths instead of shallow ones due to discomfort. When pain is managed well, patients are more likely to engage in activities like ambulation and deep breathing, both of which are vital in preventing and treating atelectasis. Other options may include elements that support recovery, but they do not combine the critical aspects of early movement with pain management as effectively as this choice does.