A nurse has obtained a client's oxygen saturation measurement of 88% on 2 liters of oxygen via nasal cannula. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Check the client's heart rate on the oximeter
Compare the result with the baseline reading
Decrease the amount of oxygen administered
Perform another reading while the client ambulates
The Correct Answer is B
Answer: B. Compare the result with the baseline reading
Rationale:
A. Check the client's heart rate on the oximeter:
Although checking the heart rate may provide context for assessing the client's overall status, it does not address the primary concern of the low oxygen saturation. Understanding the client's baseline saturation level takes priority to guide further actions effectively.
B. Compare the result with the baseline reading:
Comparing the reading with the client's baseline is essential. For clients with chronic respiratory conditions, baseline oxygen levels may naturally be lower. Identifying if this 88% saturation is typical or unusual for the client helps determine the need for further intervention or adjustment.
C. Decrease the amount of oxygen administered:
Reducing oxygen flow when the saturation is low is contraindicated, as it could worsen hypoxia. Instead, increasing oxygen may be warranted if the reading remains below the baseline after further assessment.
D. Perform another reading while the client ambulates:
Repeating the reading during ambulation may worsen hypoxia and is not ideal without understanding baseline oxygenation at rest. Re-evaluation at rest or in a different position may be more appropriate for accurate assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The charge nurse should explain to the assistive personnel (AP) that one of the responsibilities of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) is providing direct client care. LPNs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and are trained to deliver basic nursing care to clients. This includes tasks such as administering medications, monitoring vital signs, dressing wounds, assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), and reporting any changes in the client's condition to the RN.
The other options are not typically within the scope of practice for an LPN:
a. Coordinating client care: The coordination of client care is primarily the responsibility of the RN. While LPNs may contribute to the coordination of care by providing input and collaborating with the healthcare team, the overall coordination is usually managed by the RN.
c. Assessing a client's health status: Assessing a client's health status is a role primarily performed by RNs. LPNs may gather data and contribute to the assessment process, but the comprehensive assessment and interpretation of data is typically the responsibility of the RN.
d. Identifying specific client health problems: Identifying specific client health problems and formulating nursing diagnoses is part of the RN's role. LPNs may assist in collecting data and providing input, but the identification and formulation of nursing diagnoses are within the scope of practice of the RN.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
When instructing a client on self-administration of nasal drops, the nurse should recommend the supine position. In the supine position, the client lies on their back with the head slightly elevated. This position allows for easy access to the nostrils and facilitates the proper instillation of the nasal drops.
The other options are not recommended for instillation of nasal drops for various reasons:
a) Sims position: Simsposition is a side-lying position with the upper leg flexed. This position is often used for rectal examinations or procedures and is not suitable for instilling nasal drops.
b) Prone position: Prone position refers to lying face down. It is not ideal for administering nasal drops as it
can obstruct proper access to the nostrils and make it difficult to instill the drops accurately.
d) Orthopneic position: Orthopneic position is a sitting position with the upper body supported by pillows. It is commonly used by individuals with respiratory distress to facilitate breathing. However, it is not specifically recommended for administering nasal drops as it may not provide optimal access to the nostrils for proper instillation.
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