The nurse attaches a pulse oximeter to a client's finger and obtains an oxygen saturation reading of 91%. Which assessment finding most likely contributes to this reading?

Blood pressure is 142/88 mm Hg.

Radial pulse volume is 3+.

2+ edema of fingers and hands.

Capillary refill time is 2 seconds.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Blood pressure is 142/88 mm Hg:

While elevated blood pressure may have implications for cardiovascular health, it is not directly related to oxygen saturation levels measured by a pulse oximeter.

B. Radial pulse volume is 3+:

A strong radial pulse volume suggests adequate peripheral perfusion, which would not typically contribute to a low oxygen saturation reading.

C. 2+ edema of fingers and hands:

Edema of the fingers and hands can impair the transmission of light through tissues, which may interfere with the accuracy of oxygen saturation readings obtained from a pulse oximeter. Edematous tissues may absorb light and lead to falsely low readings.

D. Capillary refill time is 2 seconds:

Normal capillary refill time indicates adequate peripheral circulation, which would not typically contribute to a low oxygen saturation reading.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Switch to a non-rebreather mask:

A non-rebreather mask delivers a higher concentration of oxygen (typically 10-15 L/min) compared to a nasal cannula. However, switching to a non-rebreather mask is a more drastic step that might not be necessary immediately. Other, simpler interventions should be considered first.

B. Verify placement of pulse oximeter:

Before making any changes, it's crucial to verify the accuracy of the oxygen saturation reading. The pulse oximeter might be misplaced or malfunctioning, leading to an inaccurate reading. This is an appropriate first action to ensure the reading is correct before deciding on further interventions.

C. Remove nasal cannula:

Removing the nasal cannula would decrease the client’s oxygenation further, worsening the situation. This is not an appropriate action when oxygen saturation is already low.

D. Increase the oxygen to 3 L/minute:

Increasing the oxygen flow rate is a reasonable intervention to improve oxygen saturation. However, this should typically be done after verifying the accuracy of the oxygen saturation reading. If the reading is correct, this is a valid next step to improve the client’s oxygenation.

A. Capillary refill of 2 seconds in the lower right foot. B. Basilar lung sounds that are diminished in the left lung. C. Contraction of the left pupil when light shines in the right eye. D. Active bowel sounds in the lower right quadrant.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Capillary refill of 2 seconds in the lower right foot:

Capillary refill of 2 seconds in the lower right foot is within normal limits and does not require documentation in a chart-by-exception system, as it is considered an expected finding.

B. Basilar lung sounds that are diminished in the left lung:

Diminished basilar lung sounds in the left lung may indicate a respiratory issue and would be considered a significant finding warranting documentation in a chart-by-exception system.

C. Contraction of the left pupil when light shines in the right eye:

Contraction of the left pupil when light shines in the right eye is an abnormal finding (consensual response), which should be documented in a chart-by-exception system.

D. Active bowel sounds in the lower right quadrant:

Active bowel sounds in the lower right quadrant are within normal limits and do not require documentation in a chart-by-exception system, as they are considered expected findings.

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The nurse attaches a pulse oximeter to a client's finger and obtains an oxygen saturation reading of 91%. Which assessment finding most likely contributes to this reading?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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