NCLEX RN Practice Question # 863

NCLEX Examination.

Practice Question # 863.

Bronchoscopy is the direct inspection and examination of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi through either a flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope or a rigid bronchoscope. The fiberoptic scope is used more frequently in current practice.

The purposes of diagnostic bronchoscopy are:

(1) to examine tissues or collect secretions,

(2) to determine the location and extent of the pathologic process and to obtain a tissue sample for diagnosis (by biting or cutting forceps, curettage, or brush biopsy),

(3) to determine if a tumor can be resected surgically, and

(4) to diagnose bleeding sites (source of hemoptysis).

Therapeutic bronchoscopy is used to:

(1) remove foreign bodies from the tracheobronchial tree,

(2) remove secretions obstructing the tracheobronchial tree when the patient cannot clear them,

(3) treat postoperative atelectasis, and

(4) destroy and excise lesions.

The fiberoptic bronchoscope is a thin, flexible bronchoscope that can be directed into the segmental bronchi . Because of its small size, its flexibility, and its excellent optical system, it allows increased visualization of the peripheral airways and is ideal for diagnosing pulmonary lesions. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy allows biopsy of previously inaccessible tumors and can be performed at the bedside. It also can be performed through endotracheal or tracheostomy tubes of patients on ventilators. Cytologic examinations can be performed without surgical intervention.

The rigid bronchoscope is a hollow metal tube with a light at its end. It is used mainly for removing foreign substances, investigating the source of massive hemoptysis, or performing endobronchial surgical procedures. Rigid bronchoscopy is performed in the operating room, not at the bedside. Possible complications of bronchoscopy include a reaction to the local anesthetic, infection, aspiration, bronchospasm, hypoxemia (low blood oxygen level), pneumothorax, bleeding, and perforation.