A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who is requesting an oral contraceptive.

Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a contraindication to the use of oral contraceptives?

A client with heart failure should limit their sodium intake. Bottled salad dressings can be high in sodium, so replacing them with homemade vinegar and oil dressing can help reduce sodium intake.

The other options are not recommended for a client with heart failure who needs to limit their sodium intake.

a) Prepared frozen dinners are often high in sodium.

b) Adding salt when preparing a meal would increase sodium intake.

c) Imitation crab and lobster products (option can also be high in sodium.

Answer: B. Compare the result with the baseline reading

Rationale:

A. Check the client's heart rate on the oximeter:
Although checking the heart rate may provide context for assessing the client's overall status, it does not address the primary concern of the low oxygen saturation. Understanding the client's baseline saturation level takes priority to guide further actions effectively.

B. Compare the result with the baseline reading:
Comparing the reading with the client's baseline is essential. For clients with chronic respiratory conditions, baseline oxygen levels may naturally be lower. Identifying if this 88% saturation is typical or unusual for the client helps determine the need for further intervention or adjustment.

C. Decrease the amount of oxygen administered:
Reducing oxygen flow when the saturation is low is contraindicated, as it could worsen hypoxia. Instead, increasing oxygen may be warranted if the reading remains below the baseline after further assessment.

D. Perform another reading while the client ambulates:
Repeating the reading during ambulation may worsen hypoxia and is not ideal without understanding baseline oxygenation at rest. Re-evaluation at rest or in a different position may be more appropriate for accurate assessment.