A nurse suspects impending respiratory failure in a client diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The nurse should recognize that which assessment finding supports the presence of hypoxemia?
The client has circumoral cyanosis.
The client's heart rate is 86 bpm.
The client has a pulse ox of 90% on room air.
The client is lethargic.
The Correct Answer is C
A. The client has circumoral cyanosis: Circumoral cyanosis, or bluish discoloration around the mouth, is a sign of hypoxia but may not be present in all cases of hypoxemia. Pulse oximetry provides a more objective measurement.
B. The client's heart rate is 86 bpm: Heart rate may be within normal limits even in the presence of hypoxemia, as compensatory mechanisms may not be fully activated.
C. The client has a pulse ox of 90% on room air: A pulse oximetry reading of 90% indicates hypoxemia (oxygen saturation below normal levels), which is a significant finding, especially in a client with COPD who may already have compromised respiratory function.
D. The client is lethargic: Lethargy may occur with severe hypoxemia, but it is a late sign and may not always be present. Monitoring oxygen saturation is more reliable for early detection of hypoxemia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "After the surgery, I will have to be careful with heavy lifting for a few weeks": This statement demonstrates understanding of postoperative precautions, as heavy lifting can strain the surgical site and delay healing.
B. "I know that after the surgery, I will only have one testicle left": This statement indicates awareness of the surgical procedure and its potential outcomes, which is accurate.
C. "I will have to take antibiotics as prescribed by my doctor to prevent infection": This statement reflects understanding of the importance of antibiotic therapy to prevent postoperative infection, which is correct.
D. "I will need to avoid showering for a month after the surgery": This statement is incorrect.
Avoiding showering for a month after surgery is unnecessary and could lead to poor hygiene and potential complications such as infection. The client should be educated that showering is typically allowed after surgery, but they should avoid soaking the incision site in water until it has healed properly.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
Explanation
The nurse should first place the client in high Fowler's position to ease the breathing and improve oxygenation, as the client is experiencing increased dyspnea and chest pain. This position allows for better lung expansion and can be a critical immediate intervention. Following this, the nurse should obtain IV access to facilitate the administration of medications and fluids as needed. IV access is essential for the rapid administration of potential treatments, including anticoagulants, which may be required if a pulmonary embolism is confirmed. These actions are prioritized to address the client's immediate respiratory distress and to prepare for further interventions based on the evolving clinical situation. It is important to note that each clinical scenario is unique, and the interventions should be tailored to the client's specific needs and the healthcare provider's clinical judgment.
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