The nurse receives a new prescription to administer oxygen at 3 L/minute via nasal cannula to maintain an oxygen saturation between 90 and 100% for a client. The nurse obtains an oxygen saturation reading of 85%, and after repositioning the oximeter on a different finger, obtains a second reading of 87%. Which action should the nurse take next?
Place the client in a Trendelenburg position.
Securely place the prongs of the cannula in the nostrils.
Place the pulse oximeter on the client's earlobe.
Document the second reading in the client's record.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: The Trendelenburg position is not indicated for increasing oxygen saturation and could be harmful, especially for clients with respiratory distress.
Choice B reason: Ensuring that the prongs of the nasal cannula are securely placed in the nostrils is important for effective oxygen delivery, especially if the oxygen saturation remains below the prescribed range.
Choice C reason: Placing the pulse oximeter on the client's earlobe is an alternative site for obtaining a saturation reading, but it does not address the issue of potentially inadequate oxygen delivery.
Choice D reason: While documentation is important, the nurse must first address the low oxygen saturation levels before documenting the readings.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: While teaching alternative ways to manage pain is important, it does not address the immediate issue of the client not taking the medication as prescribed.
Choice B reason: The client should be instructed to take the medication as prescribed to maintain consistent pain control and prevent breakthrough pain.
Choice C reason: Advising the client to take the medication only with severe pain is contrary to the prescribed regimen and could lead to inadequate pain management.
Choice D reason: It is important to discuss the risks of long-term medication use, but the priority is to ensure that the client understands the importance of taking the medication as prescribed for effective pain management.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Offering fruit juice is part of good nutrition and hydration but does not directly assist with the client's breathing difficulty.
Choice B reason: Encouraging the client to eat all meals is important for nutritional support, but it is not the most critical action related to the client's immediate respiratory comfort.
Choice C reason: Lowering the bed may be a safety measure but does not address the client's need for respiratory support.
Choice D reason: Having the client hold a pillow over the abdomen can help splint the chest while coughing, reducing discomfort and facilitating deep breathing, which is essential for a client with emphysema experiencing difficulty breathing.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.