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 A
Explanation
a ."I will take a stool softener to prevent constipation."
Explanation:
The statement that indicates an understanding of the instructions is "I will take a stool softener to prevent constipation."
Explanation for the other options:
b. "I will ask to work the night shift, so I will not be driving in bright sunlight."
This statement is incorrect. The need to work the night shift to avoid bright sunlight does not relate to the discharge instructions for a client postoperative following laser surgery for open-angle glaucoma. The primary focus of discharge teaching for this condition would be related to eye care, medication administration, and follow-up appointments.
c. "I will need to use my eye drops for 1 year."
This statement is incorrect. While eye drops are commonly prescribed for open-angle glaucoma, the duration of their use can vary based on the individual's condition and the healthcare provider's instructions. The client should follow the specific instructions given by their healthcare provider regarding the frequency and duration of eye drop use.
d. "I will need to follow a low-protein diet."
This statement is incorrect. A low-protein diet is not typically part of the discharge instructions for a client postoperative following laser surgery for open-angle glaucoma. The focus of dietary recommendations for open-angle glaucoma is on maintaining a healthy diet and managing other health conditions that may affect intraocular pressure, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
In summary, the statement that demonstrates an understanding of the discharge instructions for a client postoperative following laser surgery for open-angle glaucoma is "I will take a stool softener to prevent constipation." This indicates the client's awareness of the importance of preventing constipation, which can be a side effect of some medications prescribed after surgery.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The priority data for the nurse to collect following an amniotomy is the fetal heart rate. This is an important nursing intervention to assess fetal well-being and identify any potential complications.
a) Assessing the color of the amniotic fluid is important, but it is not the highest priority.
b) Monitoring the client's temperature is important, but it is not the highest priority.
c) Assessing the frequency of contractions is important, but it is not the highest priority.
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