A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 2 days postpartum.
The client tells the nurse she cannot afford to pay for baby formula.
The nurse should refer the client to which of the following members of the interprofessional team?

Choice A rationale:

Placing a pulse oximeter on the client's finger to assess oxygen saturation is important, but in this scenario, establishing a patent airway takes priority. The client's cyanosis and shallow respirations indicate a severe respiratory distress, and the nurse should first ensure the client's ability to breathe before assessing oxygen levels.

Choice B rationale:

Establishing a patent airway is the priority action because the client's shallow respirations and cyanosis indicate a compromised airway and inadequate oxygenation. Ensuring a clear airway is crucial for the client's survival.

Choice C rationale:

Checking the client's pulse rate is an important assessment but should not take precedence over addressing the airway and breathing issues. The client's respiratory distress is a more immediate concern.

Choice D rationale:

Administering oxygen is an appropriate intervention, but it should not be done before ensuring a patent airway. The nurse must prioritize actions to address the most critical issue first.

Choice A rationale:

Relocating the sensor every 8 hours is not necessary when obtaining oxygen saturation readings unless there is a specific clinical reason to do so, such as skin irritation or poor perfusion at the sensor site. Frequent relocation can cause unnecessary disruption for the patient.

Choice B rationale:

Waiting 10 seconds after placing the probe before obtaining the oxygen saturation reading is not required. Modern pulse oximeters provide real-time readings, and there is no need to wait after placing the probe. The reading is usually stable within seconds.

Choice C rationale:

Choosing a finger with a capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds is an essential consideration when obtaining oxygen saturation readings. Capillary refill time is a measure of peripheral perfusion, and choosing a finger with good perfusion ensures accurate oxygen saturation measurements.

Choice D rationale:

Placing the sensor probe on the same extremity as an electronic blood pressure cuff is generally acceptable. However, it is crucial to ensure that the sensor does not interfere with the blood pressure cuff's function and that it is securely attached to the patient's finger for accurate readings.