The nurse receives a new prescription to administer oxygen at 3 L/minute via nasal cannula to maintain an oxygen saturation between 90 and 100% for a client. The nurse obtains an oxygen saturation reading of 85%, and after repositioning the oximeter on a different finger, obtains a second reading of 87%. Which action should the nurse take next?
Place the client in a Trendelenburg position.
Securely place the prongs of the cannula in the nostrils.
Place the pulse oximeter on the client's earlobe.
Document the second reading in the client's record.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: The Trendelenburg position is not indicated for increasing oxygen saturation and could be harmful, especially for clients with respiratory distress.
Choice B reason: Ensuring that the prongs of the nasal cannula are securely placed in the nostrils is important for effective oxygen delivery, especially if the oxygen saturation remains below the prescribed range.
Choice C reason: Placing the pulse oximeter on the client's earlobe is an alternative site for obtaining a saturation reading, but it does not address the issue of potentially inadequate oxygen delivery.
Choice D reason: While documentation is important, the nurse must first address the low oxygen saturation levels before documenting the readings.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","G","H"]
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The increase in heart rate from 78 to 118 beats per minute, along with the increase in pain rating from 3 to 8, suggests that the client may be experiencing pain from a source other than the surgical site. It is important to assess for other potential sources of pain to ensure comprehensive pain management.
Choice B reason:
Changing to a behavioral pain scale is not indicated in this scenario. The numerical pain scale is a standard and effective method for assessing pain levels, and there is no indication that the client has difficulty communicating her pain using this scale.
Choice C reason:
Given that the client's pain rating increased to 8, which is above the threshold of 4 on the pain scale, administering a dose of 2.5 mg of morphine as per the orders is appropriate to manage her pain.
Choice D reason:
Referring to social work for drug-seeking behavior is not supported by the information provided. The client's increased pain rating and heart rate suggest a legitimate need for pain management rather than drug-seeking behavior.
Choice E reason:
Bringing an opioid reversal agent to the bedside is not indicated unless there is a concern for opioid overdose, which is not suggested by the information provided.
Choice F reason:
While guided imagery can be a helpful adjunct for pain management, it is not the primary intervention needed at this time given the client's significant increase in pain and heart rate.
Choice G reason:
Consulting with the surgeon about the client's increased pain level is important to rule out any complications from the surgery and to discuss further pain management strategies.
Choice H reason:
Assisting the client to walk around the room may help in pain management and is part of the postoperative care plan to increase walking distance. However, it should be done cautiously considering the client's current pain level.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While the client's medical history and admission assessment provide valuable information, they do not directly measure the current pain experience.
Choice B reason: Vital signs can indicate pain but are not a definitive measure of pain severity as they can be influenced by other factors.
Choice C reason: The frequency of analgesic administration may suggest the level of pain control but does not measure the current pain intensity experienced by the client.
Choice D reason: Asking the client to describe the intensity of the pain is the most direct and effective way to assess pain severity. Pain is subjective, and the client's self-report is considered the gold standard for pain assessment.
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