The nurse is providing instruction about ipratropium (Atrovent) to a patient with COPD. Which is a common adverse effect that tends to resolve with therapy?

A. Asking the provider to repeat another radiograph of the chest.

This option is not the most appropriate action in this scenario. While a chest radiograph may be useful in certain situations to assess for complications such as pneumothorax or pneumonia, it is not typically the first intervention for an asthma exacerbation with increased wheezing and decreased oxygen saturation. In this acute situation, the priority is to provide immediate treatment to alleviate the client's symptoms and improve oxygenation.

B. Increasing oxygen to maintain an oxygen saturation of 95% or greater in the client.

While maintaining adequate oxygenation is important, especially in a client with asthma exacerbation, it is not the first-line intervention in this scenario. Oxygen supplementation may be necessary, but the priority is to address the underlying bronchospasm causing the decreased oxygen saturation. Therefore, this option may be considered after initiating appropriate bronchodilator therapy.

C. Requesting the pharmacy to dispense 10 mL of dextromethorphan PO.

This option is not appropriate for managing an asthma exacerbation. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant and does not address the underlying bronchospasm characteristic of asthma exacerbations. In fact, suppressing cough may hinder the clearance of mucus and exacerbate respiratory distress. Therefore, this intervention is not indicated and may delay appropriate treatment.

D. Instructing respiratory therapy to administer a PRN albuterol aerosol.

This is the correct action in this scenario. Albuterol is a short-acting bronchodilator commonly used to relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow in clients experiencing asthma exacerbations. Administering albuterol via aerosolized inhalation helps to quickly deliver the medication directly to the airways, providing rapid relief of symptoms such as wheezing and improving oxygenation. Therefore, instructing respiratory therapy to administer a PRN albuterol aerosol is the most appropriate intervention to address the client's acute symptoms.

A. Position the client on the nonoperative side.

Positioning the client on the nonoperative side after a pneumonectomy may not be the best choice. The positioning of the client post-pneumonectomy should be based on factors such as the individual's comfort, respiratory status, and any specific instructions from the healthcare provider. Placing the client on the nonoperative side may inadvertently put pressure on the surgical site, leading to discomfort or potential complications.

B. Monitor respiratory status every 8 hr.

Monitoring respiratory status every 8 hours is not sufficient for a client post-pneumonectomy. After such a major surgical procedure, respiratory status should be closely monitored and assessed more frequently, especially in the immediate postoperative period. This frequency allows for the early detection of any signs of respiratory distress, such as decreased oxygen saturation, dyspnea, or abnormal breath sounds, as well as complications like pneumothorax or atelectasis.

C. Elevate the head of the bed to a 15° angle.

Elevating the head of the bed to a 15° angle is a general recommendation for clients postoperative to promote respiratory function and reduce the risk of aspiration. However, after a pneumonectomy, the positioning of the client may vary based on their individual condition and surgical approach. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's specific instructions regarding positioning for optimal recovery. The angle of elevation may need to be adjusted based on the client's comfort and respiratory status.

D. Encourage the client to splint the incision when coughing.

After a pneumonectomy, it's crucial to encourage the client to splint the incision when coughing. Splinting the incision with a pillow or hands helps to reduce pain and prevent strain on the surgical site, promoting healing and minimizing the risk of complications such as wound dehiscence (opening of the surgical incision).