A nurse has obtained a client's oxygen saturation measurement of 88% on 2 liters of oxygen via nasal cannula. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Check the client's heart rate on the oximeter
Compare the result with the baseline reading
Decrease the amount of oxygen administered
Perform another reading while the client ambulates
The Correct Answer is B
Answer: B. Compare the result with the baseline reading
Rationale:
A. Check the client's heart rate on the oximeter:
Although checking the heart rate may provide context for assessing the client's overall status, it does not address the primary concern of the low oxygen saturation. Understanding the client's baseline saturation level takes priority to guide further actions effectively.
B. Compare the result with the baseline reading:
Comparing the reading with the client's baseline is essential. For clients with chronic respiratory conditions, baseline oxygen levels may naturally be lower. Identifying if this 88% saturation is typical or unusual for the client helps determine the need for further intervention or adjustment.
C. Decrease the amount of oxygen administered:
Reducing oxygen flow when the saturation is low is contraindicated, as it could worsen hypoxia. Instead, increasing oxygen may be warranted if the reading remains below the baseline after further assessment.
D. Perform another reading while the client ambulates:
Repeating the reading during ambulation may worsen hypoxia and is not ideal without understanding baseline oxygenation at rest. Re-evaluation at rest or in a different position may be more appropriate for accurate assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should expect to find hyperkalemia in the medical record of a client who has sustained a full- thickness burn and is in the emergent phase of the burn. This is due to the release of potassium from damaged cells into the bloodstream.
a) Hypernatremia is not a common finding in the emergent phase of a burn.
b) Hypercalcemia is not a common finding in the emergent phase of a burn.
c) Hypermagnesemia is not a common finding in the emergent phase of a burn.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The subjective indication that the client needs PRN (as needed) pain medication is when the client reports pain. Pain is a subjective experience, and it is essential to address the client's self-reported pain level and provide appropriate pain management.
Explanation for the other options:
a) The client's heart rate is 110/min: An increased heart rate can be an objective indication of pain, but it is not a subjective indication. Subjective indications are based on the client's self-report or personal experiences.
b) The client is guarding their abdominal incision: Guarding the abdominal incision may suggest discomfort or pain, but it is an objective indication that can be observed by the nurse. Subjective indications focus on the client's self-report.
c) The client exhibits facial grimacing: Facial grimacing can be an objective indication of pain, but it is not a subjective indication. Again, subjective indications are based on the client's self-report or personal experiences.
In this scenario, the most reliable and appropriate indication for administering PRN pain medication is when the client reports pain, as this acknowledges the client's own perception of their pain level.
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