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 B
Explanation
Answer: B. You can take a shower 1 day after your procedure.
Rationale:
A. You can resume a regular diet 3 days after your procedure:
There is typically no need to delay resuming a regular diet for three days after a cardiac catheterization. Most clients can resume their usual diet shortly after the procedure once they are fully awake and any nausea has resolved.
B. You can take a shower 1 day after your procedure:
It is generally safe to shower the day after a cardiac catheterization as long as the insertion site remains protected. Clients should avoid soaking in a bath or swimming until the site is fully healed to prevent infection.
C. You can begin exercising 2 days after your procedure:
Strenuous activities, including exercise, should generally be avoided for a few days to a week following a cardiac catheterization. This allows time for the insertion site to heal and reduces the risk of complications such as bleeding.
D. You can return to school 1 week after your procedure:
Most clients can return to school or normal activities within a few days, provided they feel well and avoid excessive physical exertion. A full week off is typically not necessary unless specified by the healthcare provider based on the individual’s recovery.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Answer: C. Weigh the client each morning after voiding
Rationale:
A. Encourage the client to gain 2.3 kg (5 lb) per week:
A weight gain goal of 0.5 to 1 kg (1 to 2 lb) per week is considered safe and realistic. Gaining 2.3 kg (5 lb) weekly is too aggressive and may cause physical and psychological stress for the client.
B. Monitor the client for 15 min after meals:
Clients with anorexia nervosa are at risk for purging behaviors. Monitoring for only 15 minutes is insufficient. A 60-minute post-meal observation period is more appropriate to deter vomiting or excessive exercise.
C. Weigh the client each morning after voiding:
Daily weights, taken at the same time each morning after voiding and before eating, provide consistent and accurate data to monitor progress and detect manipulation or fluid shifts.
D. Reinforce teaching about healthy eating during meals:
Reinforcing education during meals can increase the client’s anxiety and resistance to eating. Teaching is best done separately from mealtimes to avoid associating eating with stress.
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