A nurse is applying oxygen via nasal cannula to a client diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The client reports extreme shortness of breath. At what rate should the nurse set the flowmeter?
4L of oxygen per minute
2L of oxygen per minute
6L of oxygen per minute
8L of oxygen per minute
The Correct Answer is B
A. Oxygen at 4L per minute is generally too high for clients with COPD. High oxygen concentrations can suppress their hypoxic drive, which is their primary mechanism for breathing.
B. Oxygen at 2L per minute is the appropriate starting rate for clients with COPD. This flow rate provides supplemental oxygen without significantly increasing the risk of suppressing the client’s respiratory drive.
C. Oxygen at 6L per minute is excessive for clients with COPD and can lead to complications such as hypercapnia or respiratory depression.
D. Oxygen at 8L per minute is not recommended for clients with COPD unless specifically ordered in a life-threatening situation, as it can suppress their respiratory drive and worsen their condition.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Metabolic alkalosis is not typically associated with COPD. This condition is more commonly seen in situations involving excessive vomiting, diuretic use, or certain metabolic disorders.
B. Respiratory alkalosis is not expected in COPD. In COPD, the patient often retains carbon dioxide due to impaired gas exchange, leading to respiratory acidosis rather than alkalosis.
C. Respiratory acidosis is the most common acid-base imbalance in COPD. Due to the inability to effectively exhale carbon dioxide, patients with COPD often develop hypercapnia (elevated CO2 levels), leading to respiratory acidosis. This is particularly common during exacerbations when the patient is short of breath and unable to clear CO2 adequately.
D. Metabolic acidosis is not typically associated with COPD. While it can occur in certain conditions like renal failure or diabetic ketoacidosis, it is not a primary concern in COPD exacerbations. Respiratory acidosis is the more likely finding.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hypertension is not a common adverse effect of Beclomethasone, an inhaled corticosteroid. Systemic effects like hypertension are rare with inhaled forms due to minimal systemic absorption.
B. Hypoglycemia is not associated with Beclomethasone use. Corticosteroids are more likely to cause hyperglycemia, but this is uncommon with inhaled formulations.
C. Polyuria is not an expected side effect of Beclomethasone. It is more commonly associated with conditions like diabetes or diuretics.
D. Oral candidiasis (thrush) is a common adverse effect of inhaled corticosteroids like Beclomethasone. The medication can suppress local immunity in the oral mucosa, leading to fungal overgrowth. Clients should be advised to rinse their mouth after each use to reduce this risk.
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