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 B
Explanation
b. "You feel upset by the responses of others."
The appropriate response by the nurse is to acknowledge and validate the client's feelings. Option b, "You feel upset by the responses of others," demonstrates empathy and reflects back the client's feelings, indicating that the nurse understands and acknowledges the client's distress.
Explanation for the other options:
a. "I think you should just ignore the others." This response dismisses the client's concerns and does not address the underlying issue of the client feeling hurt by the interactions with others. It is important for the nurse to address the client's feelings and provide support.
c. "Let's keep the focus of our discussion on your needs." While it is important to address the client's needs, it is also necessary to address the client's concerns and feelings related to the interactions with other clients. Ignoring or dismissing the client's concerns can further isolate the client and hinder their progress in the therapeutic environment.
d. "Everything will get beter once you get to know everyone." This response minimizes the client's feelings and does not provide immediate support or address the client's concerns. It is essential for the nurse to validate the client's emotions and explore strategies to address the issue of others making fun of the client.
In summary, the nurse should choose a response that acknowledges the client's feelings and demonstrates empathy. Validating the client's experience can help establish trust and provide a foundation for further therapeutic interventions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice C.
Choice A rationale:
- While maintaining a distance of 3 feet can reduce the risk of direct contact transmission, it is not the most effective measure for contact isolation precautions.
- Contact isolation aims to prevent the spread of pathogens that can be transmitted through direct or indirect contact with the infected person or contaminated objects.
- A distance of 3 feet may not be sufficient to prevent transmission via droplets or fomites (inanimate objects that can harbor infectious agents).
Choice B rationale:
- Sterile gloves are not routinely required for contact isolation precautions.
- They are primarily used for sterile procedures or when there is a risk of exposure to blood or body fluids.
- For contact isolation, standard clean gloves are usually sufficient to protect against transmission via direct contact.
Choice C rationale:
- Leaving equipment that is used routinely in the client's room is a crucial part of contact isolation precautions.
- This practice prevents the spread of infection by minimizing the movement of potentially contaminated items outside of the isolation room.
- Equipment like stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, and thermometers should be dedicated to the client's use and not shared with other patients.
Choice D rationale:
- Negative-pressure airflow rooms are used for airborne isolation precautions, which are designed to prevent the spread of pathogens that can be transmitted through the air.
- Contact isolation does not specifically require a negative-pressure room, as the primary mode of transmission is through direct or indirect contact, not airborne particles.
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