A client receiving mechanical ventilation has a pH of 7.26, PaCO2 of 68 mm Hg, and a PaO2 of 92 mm Hg. Which intervention should the nurse implement?Reference Range:
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG)
pH [Adult/child: 7.35 to 7.45]
PaCO2 [Adult/child: 35 to 45 mm Hg)
HCO- [Adult/child: 21 to 28 mEq/L (21 to 28 mmol/L)] PaO2 [Adult/child: 80 to 100 mm Hg)

A. Perform pulmonary function test
This is important for assessing lung function, but it is not an immediate priority during an acute exacerbation when the patient's oxygen saturation is low and they are experiencing respiratory distress.
Pulmonary function testing can be done once the patient's acute symptoms are stabilized.
B. Measure vital signs
While vital signs are important for ongoing assessment, the patient's vital signs were already assessed at admission and are being monitored every 4 hours as per orders.
Administering oxygen and albuterol to stabilize the patient's condition takes precedence over routine vital sign checks immediately after the initial assessment.
C. Provide a regular diet tray
This is a routine aspect of care and does not address the acute respiratory distress or hypoxemia that require immediate attention.
It can be done once the patient's respiratory status has stabilized.
D. Give albuterol as ordered
The patient is experiencing an asthma exacerbation with wheezing and subcostal retractions. Albuterol is a bronchodilator that helps relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow.
It was ordered for nebulization now and every 4 hours PRN (as needed) for wheezing.
Administering albuterol promptly is crucial to help alleviate respiratory distress and improve lung function.
E. Apply oxygen 1 L/minute
The patient's oxygen saturation is 91% on room air, which is below the target of greater than 94%. Oxygen therapy is indicated to correct hypoxemia and improve oxygen saturation.
The order specifies to titrate oxygen to keep saturation greater than 94%, starting at 1 L/minute via nasal cannula.

A. Since the client is already on a fraction of inspired oxygen (FIO2) of 35% and has successfully weaned off the ventilator, increasing the FIO2 may not be necessary unless the client's oxygenation status deteriorates post-extubation.
B. As the client has successfully weaned off pressure support and is now at 0 cm H2O, the healthcare provider may consider transitioning to a different ventilator mode such as T-piece or CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) to further assess the client's ability to breathe spontaneously without ventilator support.
C. Ice chips are typically offered to conscious patients to alleviate thirst or dry mouth. The client was previously intubated and may not be fully conscious or able to swallow safely immediately post- extubation.
D. Since the client has been weaned off pressure support successfully, there is no indication to set the ventilator to provide mandatory breaths. The focus is on assessing the client's ability to breathe spontaneously.
E. Even though the client has been weaned off the ventilator, it's important to ensure adequate oxygenation. Setting up supplemental oxygen delivery, such as via nasal cannula or face mask, can support the client's oxygen needs during the transition phase post-extubation.
F. Since the client has been successfully weaned to 0 cm H2O pressure support and the healthcare provider is evaluating the client, gathering supplies for potential extubation is appropriate. This includes ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies for a safe extubation procedure are readily available at the bedside.
G. Unless specifically indicated for other medical reasons not mentioned, there is no immediate need to place a nasogastric tube based on the information provided about the client's current condition post- weaning.