A middle-aged client reports, "I can't get my breath when I walk." Upon assessment, the nurse notes that the patient has a barrel chest and is using his accessory muscles to breathe. The patient's respiratory rate is 28/min. On palpation, there is limited expansion and decreased tactile fremitus. Percussion yields hyperresonant sounds. On auscultation, prolonged expiration, scattered wheezes, and rhonchi are present. Which disorder would the nurse suspect?

Choice A rationale:

This statement indicates a need for further teaching. Synthetic clothing and woolen socks can generate static electricity, which poses a risk around oxygen due to its flammable nature. The client should be advised to wear cotton clothing and avoid synthetic fabrics to prevent static-related accidents.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is correct. Oxygen supports combustion, so ensuring visitors don't smoke near the client is crucial. However, it does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is incorrect. The client cannot determine the oxygen flow rate by visual inspection of the flowmeter. The flow rate should be set based on the healthcare provider's instructions, and this information should have been covered in the teaching.

Choice D rationale:

This statement indicates the client understands the potential cognitive effects of oxygen therapy and when to seek medical assistance. It does not necessarily indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice A rationale:

Applying petroleum jelly to the nares is not necessary in this situation. Oxygen therapy through a nasal cannula aims to deliver oxygen to the client's respiratory system. Applying petroleum jelly might interfere with the oxygen delivery and is not a standard practice.

Choice B rationale:

Removing the nasal cannula while the client eats reduces the oxygen supply during a time when the body's oxygen demand might increase due to the digestive process. It's important to maintain consistent oxygen therapy, even during meals.

Choice C rationale:

Attaching a humidifier bottle to the base of the flow meter is not necessary for oxygen therapy at 5 L/min via nasal cannula. Humidification is usually needed at higher oxygen flow rates to prevent drying of the mucous membranes.

Choice D rationale:

Securing the oxygen tubing to the bed sheet near the client's head is the correct action. This ensures that the tubing is not pulled or tugged during movement, maintaining a steady flow of oxygen. Placing it near the client's head prevents kinking or tangling of the tubing and allows the client to move without disrupting the therapy.