A client with chronic bronchitis has a non-productive cough, rhonchi in bilateral lung fields, and difficulty expectorating the secretions. Which intervention should the nurse incorporate into the plan of care?

Choice A reason:
Using bronchodilators every 2 hours as needed may not be appropriate for all clients. Bronchodilators are typically used on a schedule or as needed based on symptoms, but overuse can lead to tolerance and decreased effectiveness. The nurse should provide education on the proper use and timing of bronchodilators.

Choice B reason:
Pursed-lip breathing is a technique that helps control shortness of breath and improve ventilation. It can slow down the client's breathing, promote relaxation, and ensure more effective lung function. This technique is particularly beneficial during an acute exacerbation of COPD and should be included in the discharge teaching plan.

Choice C reason:
Increasing home oxygen without proper assessment can be dangerous. Oxygen therapy should be titrated based on the client's oxygen saturation and clinical status. Clients with COPD are at risk of CO2 retention, and too much oxygen can suppress their drive to breathe. The nurse should educate the client on monitoring their SpO2 and when to adjust oxygen levels, typically under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Choice D reason:
Huff coughing is a technique used to clear mucus from the airways. While it can be effective, it should be taught by a respiratory therapist or nurse who can assess the client's ability to perform the technique correctly. It is not the first-line teaching for a client being discharged with an acute exacerbation of COPD.

Choice A Reason:
A glucose level of at least 600 mg/dL is more indicative of hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) rather than diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). While both conditions involve high blood sugar levels, DKA is typically characterized by blood glucose levels that are high but not as extreme as those seen in HHS1.

Choice B Reason:
A fruity, acetone smell to the breath is a classic sign of DKA. This odor is due to the presence of ketones, particularly acetone, which is exhaled. It’s one of the key clinical manifestations that can help in the diagnosis of DKA.

Choice C Reason:
The absence of ketones in the urine would not be consistent with a diagnosis of DKA. One of the hallmarks of DKA is the presence of ketones in the urine, resulting from the breakdown of fats due to a lack of insulin.

Choice D Reason:
Polyuria (excessive urination) and polydipsia (excessive thirst) are symptoms of DKA. They occur as the body tries to eliminate excess glucose through the urine, which can lead to dehydration and the need to drink more fluids.

Choice E Reason:
Rapid, deep breathing, also known as Kussmaul respiration, is a compensatory mechanism for the acidosis seen in DKA. The body attempts to correct the acidic pH by exhaling more carbon dioxide.