The nurse knows a patient with type 1 diabetes needs more education when the patient makes which of the following statements?

B. A decrease in the respiratory rate from 32 breaths/minute to 20 breaths/minute indicates improved respiratory status and effectiveness of nursing care. A lower respiratory rate suggests that the patient's breathing is becoming less labored, and oxygenation may be improving.
A. A lower heart rate may suggest a reduction in pain, improved oxygenation, or decreased stress on the cardiovascular system. However, other factors such as medications, rest, and hydration can also influence heart rate. Overall, a decrease in heart rate is a favorable finding.
C. A slight decrease in blood pressure from 140/80 mm Hg to 130/78 mm Hg may indicate a positive response to nursing care. However, blood pressure fluctuations can be influenced by various factors, including hydration status, medications, and underlying medical conditions.
D. Pain management is an essential aspect of nursing care, particularly for patients with lower respiratory infections who may experience discomfort due to coughing, chest congestion, and inflammation. However, pain levels can fluctuate over time and may require ongoing assessment and intervention.

C. Persistent shortness of breath after using an inhaler could indicate an inadequate response to treatment or worsening asthma exacerbation. The nurse should therefore see this patient first.
A. In COPD patients pulse oximetry oxygen saturations of more than 90% are acceptable. In the treatment of exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), oxygen should be titrated to achieve a target oxygen saturation range of 88-92%. This results in a greater than twofold reduction in mortality, compared with the routine administration of high-concentration oxygen therapy.
B. Administering antibiotics can be prioritized, but it may not require immediate attention compared to addressing acute respiratory distress or hypoxemia.
D. Collecting a sputum specimen for laboratory analysis is important for diagnosing and managing respiratory infections, but it may not be as time-sensitive as addressing acute respiratory distress or hypoxemia.