A nurse is caring for a client who has pneumonia.
The client’s oxygen saturation is 85%. What is the first action the nurse should take?
Increase the client’s oral fluid intake.
Initiate humidification therapy.
Raise the head of the bed.
Encourage the client to cough and deep breath.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Increasing the client’s oral fluid intake is not the immediate action the nurse should take. While hydration is important, it does not directly address the client’s low oxygen saturation.
Choice B rationale
Initiating humidification therapy can help to thin secretions and improve oxygenation, but it is not the immediate action the nurse should take.
Choice C rationale
Raising the head of the bed is the first action the nurse should take. This position can help to improve lung expansion and oxygenation.
Choice D rationale
Encouraging the client to cough and deep breath can help to clear secretions and improve oxygenation, but it is not the immediate action the nurse should take.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pursed-lip breathing can help improve oxygenation and reduce shortness of breath in clients with COPD. However, it is not the priority action when a client reports difficulty breathing.
Choice B rationale
Increasing the oxygen flow rate without a physician’s order can lead to oxygen toxicity or suppress the respiratory drive in clients with COPD. Therefore, this is not the priority action.
Choice C rationale
Coughing and expectorating secretions can help clear the airways, but it is not the priority action when a client reports difficulty breathing.
Choice D rationale
Evaluating the client’s respiratory status is the priority action. The nurse should assess the client’s breath sounds, respiratory rate, use of accessory muscles, and oxygen saturation to determine the severity of the client’s difficulty breathing and guide further interventions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Tachycardia is not a common adverse effect of oxygen therapy. It is more likely to be associated with conditions such as fever, anemia, or hypoxia.
Choice B rationale
Poor skin turgor is a sign of dehydration, not a typical adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Oxygen therapy does not directly affect the body’s hydration status.
Choice C rationale
Excessive pulmonary secretions are not a direct adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Conditions such as pneumonia or bronchitis often cause increased secretions.
Choice D rationale
Cracks in the oral mucous membranes can occur as a result of oxygen therapy. Oxygen can dry out the mucous membranes, leading to discomfort and potential cracking.
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