A nurse is caring for a patient with pneumonia who has been on oxygen therapy for several days.
Which of the following symptoms should the nurse recognize as a potential adverse effect of oxygen therapy?

Choice A rationale
Using a humidifier beside the bed at night may not necessarily decrease the number of apneic episodes in a client with obstructive sleep apnea. While a humidifier can help moisten the airways and may provide some relief from symptoms such as dry mouth or throat, it does not address the underlying issue of airway obstruction.
Choice B rationale
Losing weight can indeed help decrease the number of apneic episodes in a client with obstructive sleep apnea. Obesity is a major risk factor for sleep apnea, as excess fat tissue can thicken the wall of the windpipe, making it narrower and making it harder to keep open.
Therefore, losing weight can help reduce this fat and widen the airway, leading to fewer apneic episodes.
Choice C rationale
Taking a sleeping pill at night may actually worsen obstructive sleep apnea. While it might help the client fall asleep, it can also relax the muscles of the throat, which can make the airway more likely to collapse during sleep, leading to more apneic episodes.

Choice D rationale
Drinking a glass of red wine before bedtime is not recommended for a client with obstructive sleep apnea. Alcohol can relax the muscles in the throat and can disrupt the normal sleep cycle, both of which can lead to more apneic episodes.

Choice A rationale

While involving the family in the care of an older adult client is important, calling the family to make arrangements for someone to sit with the client is not the immediate action the nurse should take. The nurse’s first responsibility is to ensure the client’s safety and well-being.
Choice B rationale
Obtaining a prescription for medication to sedate the client is not the immediate action the nurse should take. Sedating the client does not address the immediate concern of potential injury.
Choice C rationale
The nurse should first check the client for injuries. This is the immediate action because the client may have sustained injuries from the fall. The nurse should perform a thorough assessment to determine the extent of any injuries and provide appropriate care.
Choice D rationale
Assisting the client back into bed and applying restraints is not the immediate action the nurse should take. Restraints should be used as a last resort and only if less restrictive measures have been ineffective. Furthermore, restraints require a physician’s order.