A nurse is assessing a patient who has been using a nasal cannula for oxygen therapy. The patient complains of nasal dryness and irritation. What intervention should the nurse implement?

Keep the reservoir bag fully inflated at all times.

Choice A rationale:

In a partial rebreather mask, the reservoir bag should be kept fully inflated at all times to ensure the delivery of the highest possible oxygen concentration during inspiration. The bag collects oxygen during expiration, and the one-way valve prevents the exhaled gases from entering the bag. This way, the patient can inhale a mixture of oxygen from the reservoir and fresh oxygen flow.

Choice B rationale:

Breathing through the mouth and exhaling through the nose is not a necessary instruction for a patient using a partial rebreather mask. It doesn't directly impact the effectiveness of oxygen delivery.

Choice C rationale:

Adjusting the elastic strap to fit snugly around the face is not specific to ensuring effective oxygen delivery. It is a general guideline for mask fitting but doesn't directly affect oxygen administration.

Choice D rationale:

Removing the mask every 15 minutes to check the skin is not necessary and can disrupt the delivery of oxygen therapy. It's essential to maintain a consistent oxygen supply to the patient's lungs, and removing the mask frequently can compromise that. Checking the skin can be done periodically without removing the mask completely.

Choice A rationale:

Nasal cannula delivers low to moderate concentrations of oxygen and may not be effective for a client with thick secretions, dry mucous membranes, or upper airway edema. Additionally, the nasal cannula may not provide sufficient humidification to alleviate these conditions.

Choice B rationale:

The simple face mask is not ideal for a client with thick secretions, dry mucous membranes, or upper airway edema as it may not provide enough humidification and could be uncomfortable for the patient.

Choice C rationale:

A partial rebreather mask also may not be the most appropriate choice for this client as it has a reservoir bag that may not adequately humidify the oxygen, leading to discomfort and potential worsening of dry mucous membranes.

Choice D rationale:

The aerosol mask is the most appropriate choice because it delivers humidified oxygen in the form of small aerosol particles, which can help alleviate thick secretions, moisturize dry mucous membranes, and reduce upper airway edema. This mask is beneficial for patients who require higher humidity levels to maintain airway patency and comfort.