A nurse is caring for a client who has COPD. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings is the priority to report?
Hgb 20 g/dL
Oxygen saturation 92%
Productive cough with green sputum
Chest x-ray shows hyperinflation of lungs
The Correct Answer is A
Answer: A
Rationale:
A) Hgb 20 g/dL:
A hemoglobin level of 20 g/dL is elevated and suggests polycythemia, which can occur in chronic respiratory conditions like COPD due to chronic hypoxia. Elevated hemoglobin levels can increase blood viscosity, leading to complications such as increased risk of thrombosis and cardiovascular stress. This finding indicates a potentially serious issue and should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately to address any underlying causes and manage the client's condition effectively.
B) Oxygen saturation 92%:
An oxygen saturation of 92% is slightly below the typical normal range (95-100%) but is not immediately life-threatening. While it indicates mild hypoxemia, it is a common finding in COPD patients, and the management would typically involve supplemental oxygen or adjustment of therapy. This finding should be monitored but is not the most critical issue to report immediately.
C) Productive cough with green sputum:
A productive cough with green sputum suggests a possible infection or exacerbation of COPD. Although this is an important finding that requires evaluation and possible treatment, it is less critical than an elevated hemoglobin level, which indicates a more acute systemic issue. The green sputum should be reported and managed, but it is not the priority compared to the elevated hemoglobin.
D) Chest x-ray shows hyperinflation of lungs:
Hyperinflation of the lungs is a common radiological finding in COPD due to air trapping. While it is a significant finding, it is generally consistent with the disease's progression and does not indicate an acute problem requiring immediate intervention. Monitoring and managing the underlying COPD are necessary, but this finding is less urgent than the elevated hemoglobin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Performing oral care every 2 hours is an important nursing intervention for a client receiving mechanical ventilation via an endotracheal tube. This helps to reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia.
a) Monitoring the client's vital signs is important, but it should be done more frequently than every 8 hours.
b) Repositioning the endotracheal tube is not necessary unless there is a specific indication.
c) Placing the client in a supine position is not recommended as it increases the risk of aspiration.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
c. Periorbital edema.
Explanation: Acute glomerulonephritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the glomeruli of the kidneys. It is commonly characterized by periorbital edema, which is swelling around the eyes. This occurs due to fluid retention and impaired kidney function. Other common manifestations of acute glomerulonephritis include hypertension (increased blood pressure), dark or tea-colored urine (hematuria), decreased urine output, and signs of fluid overload such as edema in the hands, feet, and face.
Option a, decreased blood pressure, is not typically seen in acute glomerulonephritis. Instead, hypertension is a common finding due to fluid retention and increased blood volume.
Option b, pale yellow urine, is not expected in acute glomerulonephritis. Instead, urine may appear dark or
tea-colored due to the presence of blood (hematuria).
Option d, increased urination, is not a characteristic finding in acute glomerulonephritis. Instead, there is often a decrease in urine output or oliguria.
It is important to note that individual presentations may vary, and the nurse should consider the complete clinical picture and the child's specific symptoms when assessing for acute glomerulonephritis.
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