A nurse is assessing a client's respiratory rate and finds it to be 8 breaths per minute. What action should the nurse take?

Answer: c. Assess the client for signs of respiratory distress.

Explanation: A respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute is below the normal range (12-20 breaths per minute) and may indicate respiratory depression or impairment. The nurse should assess the client for signs of respiratory distress and notify the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.

a. Documenting the respiratory rate as normal would be inaccurate since it is below the normal range.

b. Initiating oxygen therapy is not the first-line intervention based solely on a low respiratory rate but requires a comprehensive assessment of the client's respiratory status.

d. Administering a bronchodilator medication is not appropriate solely based on a low respiratory rate without further assessment.

Answer: d. Notify the healthcare provider of the irregular breathing pattern.

Explanation: An irregular breathing pattern with alternating periods of deep and shallow breaths may indicate a respiratory disorder or impairment. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.

a. Documenting the irregular breathing pattern as a normal variation would be inappropriate since it may indicate an underlying respiratory issue.

b. Reassessing the respiratory rate after 30 minutes may delay appropriate intervention if there is an underlying respiratory problem.

c. Initiating oxygen therapy is not the first-line intervention based solely on an irregular breathing pattern but requires further assessment and evaluation.