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 C

Explanation

A. Suctions secretions from the posterior pharynx:

Suctioning secretions from the posterior pharynx is an appropriate action to maintain airway patency and prevent aspiration in an unconscious client. This action indicates proper understanding of oral care principles.

B. Tests for a gag reflex before performing oral care:

Testing for a gag reflex before performing oral care is an important safety measure, especially in unconscious clients, to prevent aspiration or airway obstruction. This action indicates proper assessment and consideration of the client's protective reflexes.

C. Places the client in a supine position:

Placing an unconscious client in a supine position during oral care can increase the risk of aspiration, as it may impair the client's ability to manage oral secretions. The preferred position for oral care in unconscious clients is typically a side-lying position to facilitate drainage of oral secretions and reduce the risk of aspiration.

D. Uses an oral airway to keep the teeth apart:

Using an oral airway to keep the teeth apart is not a standard practice for oral care in unconscious clients and may not be necessary. Proper positioning of the client's head and jaw manipulation can often provide adequate access for oral care without the need for an oral airway.

A. Elevate the head of the bed to a 45 degree angle. B. Lift and lock the side rails in place. C. Apply the client's positive airway pressure device. D. Remove dentures or other oral appliance.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Elevate the head of the bed to a 45-degree angle:

Elevating the head of the bed can help improve airway patency and reduce the risk of airway obstruction in clients with OSA. While this intervention is important, applying the positive airway pressure device (CPAP or BiPAP) takes precedence due to its direct impact on maintaining airway patency and preventing respiratory compromise.

B. Lift and lock the side rails in place:

Ensuring the safety of the client by lifting and locking the side rails is important, but it does not directly address the client's OSA or the potential respiratory depression associated with opioid analgesic administration.

C. Apply the client's positive airway pressure device:

This is the most important intervention in this scenario. Clients with severe obstructive sleep apnea rely on positive airway pressure devices, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP), to maintain airway patency and prevent episodes of apnea during sleep. Applying the device before leaving the client alone ensures continuous support for effective breathing.

D. Remove dentures or other oral appliance:

While removing dentures or other oral appliances may be necessary for client comfort and safety, it is not directly related to managing OSA or preventing respiratory compromise associated with opioid analgesic administration.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

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