A nurse is caring for a group of clients on an infectious disease unit.
The nurse should wear an N95 respirator mask when caring for a client who has which of the following disorders?

 

Choice A rationale:

The client's respirations are faster and deeper than normal due to expelling too much carbon dioxide. This condition is known as hyperventilation. Hyperventilation can occur due to various reasons such as anxiety, pain, fever, or metabolic acidosis. When the body expels excessive carbon dioxide, it leads to respiratory alkalosis, resulting in faster and deeper breathing to compensate for the decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

Choice B rationale:

This option is incorrect. Hypoxemia, or low blood oxygen levels, typically leads to rapid, shallow breathing (tachypnea) rather than deep and fast respirations.

Choice C rationale:

This option is incorrect. Inflammation of the phrenic nerve does not directly affect the depth and rate of respirations. Phrenic nerve inflammation is more likely to cause pain during breathing or hiccups.

Choice D rationale:

This option is incorrect. Using intercostal muscles to breathe is a normal physiological process, especially during deep or labored breathing. However, it does not explain the specific situation described in the question, where the respirations are faster and deeper than normal.

Choice A rationale:

Family members who smoke must be at least 10 ft from the client when oxygen is in use. Oxygen supports combustion, and smoking near an oxygen source can lead to a fire. Keeping family members who smoke at a safe distance minimizes this risk.

Choice B rationale:

Nail polish remover or hair spray should not be used near a client who is receiving oxygen. These substances contain flammable ingredients, which can ignite in the presence of oxygen. Instructing the client and those around them to avoid using such products prevents potential accidents.

Choice C rationale:

A "No Smoking" sign should be placed on the front door. This serves as a visual reminder to visitors and family members that smoking is prohibited in the vicinity, reducing the risk of fire when oxygen is in use. Clear communication through signage is essential in maintaining a safe environment.

Choice E rationale:

A fire extinguisher should be readily available in the home. Despite precautions, accidents can still happen. Having a fire extinguisher nearby allows for immediate response in case of a fire-related emergency, ensuring the safety of the client and those around them.

Choice D rationale:

Cotton bedding and clothing should be replaced with items made from wool. This statement is incorrect. There is no specific requirement to replace cotton items with wool for a client using oxygen. Instead, the focus should be on fire safety measures and ensuring that flammable materials are kept away from the oxygen source.