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: Skin turgor is a method to assess hydration status, but it is not the most accurate indicator of fluid balance in a patient with fluid volume overload.
Choice B reason: Monitoring weight is the most accurate method to assess fluid balance. A sudden increase or decrease in weight is indicative of fluid changes.
Choice C reason: Blood pressure can be affected by fluid volume changes, but it does not provide a direct measure of fluid balance.
Choice D reason: Lung sounds can indicate fluid overload in the lungs but do not give a complete picture of overall fluid balance.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice c. Place padding around the cannula tubing.
Choice A rationale:
Discontinuing the use of the nasal cannula is not appropriate because the client still needs supplemental oxygen to maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels.
Choice B rationale:
Applying lubricant to the cannula tubing might help reduce friction but does not address the pressure that is causing the red mark.
Choice C rationale:
Placing padding around the cannula tubing helps to alleviate the pressure on the skin, which can prevent further irritation and allow the red mark to heal.
Choice D rationale:
Decreasing the flow rate to 1 L/minute could compromise the client’s oxygenation status, as the current flow rate is necessary to maintain an oxygen saturation level of 94%.
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.