A nurse is applying oxygen via nasal cannula to a client diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The client reports extreme shortness of breath. At what rate should the nurse set the flowmeter?
4L of oxygen per minute
2L of oxygen per minute
6L of oxygen per minute
8L of oxygen per minute
The Correct Answer is B
A. Oxygen at 4L per minute is generally too high for clients with COPD. High oxygen concentrations can suppress their hypoxic drive, which is their primary mechanism for breathing.
B. Oxygen at 2L per minute is the appropriate starting rate for clients with COPD. This flow rate provides supplemental oxygen without significantly increasing the risk of suppressing the client’s respiratory drive.
C. Oxygen at 6L per minute is excessive for clients with COPD and can lead to complications such as hypercapnia or respiratory depression.
D. Oxygen at 8L per minute is not recommended for clients with COPD unless specifically ordered in a life-threatening situation, as it can suppress their respiratory drive and worsen their condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Oxygen at 4L per minute is generally too high for clients with COPD. High oxygen concentrations can suppress their hypoxic drive, which is their primary mechanism for breathing.
B. Oxygen at 2L per minute is the appropriate starting rate for clients with COPD. This flow rate provides supplemental oxygen without significantly increasing the risk of suppressing the client’s respiratory drive.
C. Oxygen at 6L per minute is excessive for clients with COPD and can lead to complications such as hypercapnia or respiratory depression.
D. Oxygen at 8L per minute is not recommended for clients with COPD unless specifically ordered in a life-threatening situation, as it can suppress their respiratory drive and worsen their condition.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While ensuring that a client with an inguinal hernia voids before discharge is important, it does not warrant immediate intervention unless there are signs of urinary retention or other complications.
B. Refusing to deep breathe after an open cholecystectomy can increase the risk of postoperative complications like atelectasis, but it does not require immediate intervention unless there are signs of respiratory distress or infection.
C. Pain on inspiration in a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential sign of pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening complication. Immediate assessment and intervention are critical to prevent further deterioration.
D. Refusing to turn for three hours increases the risk of pressure injuries, but this is not as urgent as the potential for a pulmonary embolism. The nurse should address this issue promptly but not before assessing the client with possible PE.
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