Exhibits

The nurse is stabilizing the client and preparing her for surgery.
Which goals should the nurse prioritize in the plan of care for the client while in the emergency department (ED)? Select all that apply.

Rationale for Correct Choices

Option 1: Impaired gas exchange is the priority problem because the client's oxygen saturation is critically low at 88%, and the assessment reveals expiratory wheezes, rapid respirations (28/min), and severe shortness of breath. These indicate difficulty in maintaining adequate oxygenation.

Option 2: "I used my rescue inhaler three times, but I couldn’t catch my breath." This statement directly indicates that the asthma attack is unresponsive to the usual medication, highlighting the severity of the impaired gas exchange.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices

Option 1:

A. Anxiety: While anxiety may be present, it is a secondary issue caused by the asthma attack and is not the root cause of the client’s symptoms.

C. Ineffective airway clearance: Although wheezing suggests partial obstruction, the critical issue is the impaired oxygenation and low oxygen saturation rather than mucus or secretions obstructing the airway.

D. Activity intolerance: The client’s difficulty breathing is not primarily due to exertion but rather to the asthma attack itself.

Option 2:

A. "I was jogging when it started.": This identifies the trigger for the attack but does not explain the severity or lack of response to medication.

C. "My symptoms are worse when outdoors and when exercising.": This is helpful for identifying long-term triggers but does not prioritize the immediate issue of unrelieved shortness of breath.

D. "I noticed my inhaler was expired and was worried the medication was not working.": While this points to a lapse in medication management, it does not address the acute respiratory distress.

Choice A reason: Increased oral fluid intake is a general recommendation for clients with an infection to prevent dehydration and help thin respiratory secretions. While staying hydrated is important, it is not a specific change in blood glucose management for a client with diabetes and an upper respiratory infection.

Choice B reason: Restriction of caloric intake is not appropriate advice for a client with diabetes and an infection. During illness, the body’s metabolic needs increase, and caloric intake should be adjusted to meet these needs. Restricting calories can lead to inadequate nutrition and further complications.

Choice C reason: Higher doses of insulin are often needed for clients with diabetes who are experiencing an infection. Infections can cause increased stress on the body, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. The body’s inflammatory response and the release of stress hormones can result in insulin resistance and higher blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is common for healthcare providers to adjust insulin doses upward to manage these changes and maintain glycemic control during periods of illness.

Choice D reason: Fewer fingerstick glucose checks are not recommended. In fact, during illness, it is crucial for clients with diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels more frequently. Close monitoring helps to detect hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia and allows for timely adjustments in insulin or other diabetes medications. Frequent glucose checks are essential for managing blood sugar levels effectively during illness.