A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. The nurse is preparing to change the client's surgical dressing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to demonstrate sensitivity to age-related changes?

The correct technique for using an albuterol MDI involves closing the mouth around the mouthpiece to create a seal. This helps ensure that the medication is delivered directly into the lungs and maximizes its effectiveness. It also helps prevent the medication from escaping and being wasted.

"Exhale immediately after inhaling": This instruction is not accurate. After closing the mouth around the mouthpiece and activating the inhaler to release the medication, the client should inhale slowly and deeply through the mouth, holding their breath for about 10 seconds if possible. Exhaling immediately after inhaling would not allow enough time for the medication to be absorbed effectively.

"Tilt your head forward while inhaling": Tilted head position is not necessary when using an albuterol MDI. The client should hold the inhaler in an upright position, with the mouthpiece directed toward their mouth. This allows for proper delivery of the medication.

"Take three quick breaths while depressing the canister": This instruction is not accurate for using an albuterol MDI. The correct technique involves taking a slow and deep breath in through the mouth, while simultaneously depressing the canister to release the medication. Taking three quick breaths may not allow enough time for adequate medication delivery.

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.