A nurse is caring for a client who has COPD. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings is the priority to report?
Hgb 20 g/dL
Oxygen saturation 92%
Productive cough with green sputum
Chest x-ray shows hyperinflation of lungs
The Correct Answer is A
Answer: A
Rationale:
A) Hgb 20 g/dL:
A hemoglobin level of 20 g/dL is elevated and suggests polycythemia, which can occur in chronic respiratory conditions like COPD due to chronic hypoxia. Elevated hemoglobin levels can increase blood viscosity, leading to complications such as increased risk of thrombosis and cardiovascular stress. This finding indicates a potentially serious issue and should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately to address any underlying causes and manage the client's condition effectively.
B) Oxygen saturation 92%:
An oxygen saturation of 92% is slightly below the typical normal range (95-100%) but is not immediately life-threatening. While it indicates mild hypoxemia, it is a common finding in COPD patients, and the management would typically involve supplemental oxygen or adjustment of therapy. This finding should be monitored but is not the most critical issue to report immediately.
C) Productive cough with green sputum:
A productive cough with green sputum suggests a possible infection or exacerbation of COPD. Although this is an important finding that requires evaluation and possible treatment, it is less critical than an elevated hemoglobin level, which indicates a more acute systemic issue. The green sputum should be reported and managed, but it is not the priority compared to the elevated hemoglobin.
D) Chest x-ray shows hyperinflation of lungs:
Hyperinflation of the lungs is a common radiological finding in COPD due to air trapping. While it is a significant finding, it is generally consistent with the disease's progression and does not indicate an acute problem requiring immediate intervention. Monitoring and managing the underlying COPD are necessary, but this finding is less urgent than the elevated hemoglobin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should report the possible abuse to adult protective services if an older adult client states that their child took all their money. This is an important nursing intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.
a) Instructing the client to report the theft to the police may be appropriate, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse has a legal and ethical obligation to report suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities.
c) Asking the client if there is another family member they can call for financial help may be appropriate, but it does not address the issue of possible abuse.
d) Restricting visitation for the client's family until discharge is not appropriate and may violate the client's rights.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A nurse admitting a client who has active tuberculosis should place the client in a room that is ventilated to
the outside. This is an appropriate nursing intervention to prevent the spread of tuberculosis to others.
The other options are not correct.
b) The nurse does not need to wear a gown when delivering the client's food tray but should wear a mask and gloves.
c) Visitors are not prohibited while the client's infection is activebut should be limited and should wear masks.
d) A tuberculin skin test is not necessary prior to discharge as the client has already been diagnosed with active tuberculosis.
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