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
The nurse should include maintaining elbow restraints on the infant in the plan of care following cleft palate repair. This helps to prevent the infant from touching their surgical site and disrupting the healing process.
a) Allowing the infant to have soft foods may be appropriate, but it is not the highest priority. The infant's diet should be determined by the provider and based on the infant's individual needs.
c) Instructing the parents to feed the infant with a spoon may be appropriate, but it is not the highest priority. The infant's feeding method should be determined by the provider and based on the infant's individual needs.
d) Telling the parents to avoid brushing the infant's teeth for two weeks may be appropriate, but it is not the highest priority. The infant's oral care should be determined by the provider and based on the infant's individual needs.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
b. Migraines with aura.
Explanation:
Migraines with aura are considered a contraindication to the use of oral contraceptives. Auras are neurological symptoms that occur before or during migraines and can include visual disturbances, sensory changes, or speech difficulties. Women who experience migraines with aura have an increased risk of ischemic stroke when taking oral contraceptives. Therefore, it is important to identify this condition as a contraindication and explore alternative contraceptive options for the client.
The other options (a. History of renal calculus, c. BMI of 25, d. History of cholecystectomy) are not contraindications to the use of oral contraceptives.
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