A nurse is assessing a client for hypoxemia during an asthma attack. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

Answer: B

Rationale:

A) "Expect your sputum cultures to be negative after 6 months of therapy":

While sputum cultures may become negative after a period of effective therapy, it is not always guaranteed to happen within exactly 6 months. Tuberculosis (TB) treatment usually involves several months of medication, and sputum cultures are monitored periodically to assess treatment efficacy, not solely at the 6-month mark.

B) "Drink at least 8 ounces of water when you take the pyrazinamide tablet":

Drinking plenty of water with pyrazinamide is important to prevent dehydration and to help minimize potential side effects, such as hyperuricemia or gout. Adequate hydration can also aid in the effective elimination of the medication from the body, thus reducing the risk of adverse effects.

C) "Provide a sputum specimen every 2 weeks to the clinic for testing":

Sputum specimens are typically provided less frequently than every 2 weeks, usually monthly, to monitor the progress of TB treatment. Testing frequency may vary depending on the client's condition and the healthcare provider's recommendations.

D) "Take isoniazid with an antacid":

Isoniazid should not be taken with antacids, as antacids can interfere with the absorption of isoniazid. It is usually advised to take isoniazid on an empty stomach, and clients should be instructed to wait at least 1 hour after taking isoniazid before consuming antacids.

Increasing fluid intake helps to hydrate the mucous membranes and thin the respiratory secretions, which facilitates expectoration and improves gas exchange.

1. Encourage coughing and deep breathing. This is beneficial for clearing the airways and preventing atelectasis, but it does not directly affect the viscosity of the secretions.
2. Encourage regular use of the incentive spirometer. This is helpful for expanding the lungs and preventing complications such as pneumonia or pleural effusion, but it does not influence the consistency of the secretions.
3. Encourage the client to ambulate frequently. This is important for promoting circulation and mobility, but it does not have a significant effect on the thinning of the secretions.