A 44-year-old female patient has been admitted for an abdominal abscess and sepsis.
She has been on mechanical ventilatory support for the last 2 weeks and is due to start ventilator weaning today.
She is currently on pressure support of 25 cm water (H2O) with no mandatory breaths and a fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) of 35%. What should the nurse do next?

Choice A rationale

Observing for signs of depression is the most important intervention for the nurse to include in the client’s plan of care. This patient has a history of struggling with weight management, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension, and is now approved for gastroplasty. Weight management surgery can have significant psychological implications, and patients may experience depression or other emotional issues. Identifying signs of depression and providing appropriate support and resources is crucial for the client’s overall well-being and successful outcomes.

Choice A rationale

A lung biopsy is an invasive procedure that is typically performed to diagnose conditions such as lung cancer or interstitial lung disease. It is not the first-line test for evaluating increased shortness of breath in a client with COPD56.

Choice B rationale

Spirometry is a common, non-invasive test used to assess lung function and is particularly useful in conditions like COPD. It measures the volume and speed of air a person can inhale and exhale, which can help in assessing the severity of COPD56.

Choice C rationale

Antibody testing is typically used to diagnose conditions related to the immune system, such as allergies or autoimmune diseases. It is not typically used to evaluate shortness of breath in a client with COPD56.

Choice D rationale

A sweat test is used to diagnose cystic fibrosis by measuring the amount of salt in a person’s sweat. It is not used to evaluate shortness of breath in a client with COPD56.