A nurse is collecting data from an 18-month-old toddler at a well-child visit.

Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

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.

When instructing a client on self-administration of nasal drops, the nurse should recommend the supine position. In the supine position, the client lies on their back with the head slightly elevated. This position allows for easy access to the nostrils and facilitates the proper instillation of the nasal drops.

The other options are not recommended for instillation of nasal drops for various reasons:

a) Sims position: Simsposition is a side-lying position with the upper leg flexed. This position is often used for rectal examinations or procedures and is not suitable for instilling nasal drops.

b) Prone position: Prone position refers to lying face down. It is not ideal for administering nasal drops as it

can obstruct proper access to the nostrils and make it difficult to instill the drops accurately.

d) Orthopneic position: Orthopneic position is a sitting position with the upper body supported by pillows. It is commonly used by individuals with respiratory distress to facilitate breathing. However, it is not specifically recommended for administering nasal drops as it may not provide optimal access to the nostrils for proper instillation.