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

Choice A rationale

Cyanosis is a late sign of hypoxemia and not the most common initial manifestation of ARDS. It indicates severe oxygen deprivation but doesn’t typically appear first.

Choice B rationale

Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, can occur with many conditions causing distress, but it’s not specifically the most common presenting symptom of ARDS. It's more of a nonspecific symptom of stress.

Choice C rationale

Somnolence, or drowsiness, might occur in severe respiratory distress when oxygen levels drop significantly, but it’s not the primary or most common presenting manifestation of ARDS.

Choice D rationale

Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is the hallmark of ARDS and the most common presenting symptom. It occurs due to the acute onset of severe hypoxemia caused by the underlying pathophysiology of ARDS.

Choice A rationale:

Obtaining a wound culture is crucial to identify the causative organism and guide appropriate antibiotic therapy. Prompt identification and treatment of the infection source can prevent further systemic complications.

Choice B rationale:

Rapidly administering 30 mL/kg of normal saline helps to restore intravascular volume, improve hemodynamic stability, and enhance tissue perfusion. This intervention is vital in the initial management of sepsis to prevent organ dysfunction.

Choice D rationale:

Obtaining blood cultures before initiating antibiotic therapy is essential to identify the causative microorganism and tailor antibiotic treatment. This step ensures accurate diagnosis and effective management of sepsis.

Choice E rationale:

Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics as soon as possible is critical in managing sepsis. Early and appropriate antibiotic therapy significantly reduces mortality and morbidity by targeting the suspected pathogens promptly.