A nurse is preparing to administer a liquid medication to a 6-month-old infant who is crying. Which of the

following actions should the nurse take to reduce the risk of aspiration?

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.

The nurse should apply a heat pack 5 to 10 minutes prior to the procedure when planning to obtain blood from a newborn via a heel stick. This helps to increase blood flow to the area and makes it easier to obtain the specimen.

a) Puncturing the heel to a depth of 4 mm is too deep and can cause injury to the newborn. The recommended depth for a heel stick is 2.4 mm or less.

b) Withholding feeding prior to collecting the specimen is not necessary.

d) Elevating the newborn's foot for 15 minutes following the procedure is not necessary.