The patient complaints of dyspnea and the nurse is concerned the patient may need oxygen. What assessment will the nurse perform to determine if the patient needs supplemental oxygen?

A. While daycare workers can be at risk for various infections, they are not typically considered at high risk for TB unless they are in close contact with TB-positive individuals. Therefore, this option does not present the highest likelihood of TB.
B. This individual is at a moderate risk for TB, especially if they are caring for patients with known TB or are in an environment where TB may be more prevalent. However, nursing homes are more often associated with other infections rather than being primary sources for TB outbreaks.
C. High school students are generally not at high risk for TB unless they have specific exposure or travel history. Without additional risk factors, this group does not exhibit a high likelihood of TB.
D. This option represents the highest likelihood of TB. Homeless individuals are at increased risk for TB due to factors such as crowded living conditions, poor nutrition, and lack of access to healthcare.

A. Auscultating breath sounds can provide valuable information about the presence of wheezing, crackles, or diminished breath sounds, which may indicate respiratory issues. However, while this assessment is important for understanding the underlying cause of dyspnea, it does not directly measure the patient's oxygenation status.
B. Observing chest expansion can help the nurse assess the mechanics of breathing and whether there are any restrictions in lung expansion. While this assessment is useful, it does not provide a clear indication of the patient's oxygen saturation levels or immediate need for supplemental oxygen.
C. Measuring capillary refill can give insights into peripheral perfusion and circulation, which can be affected by oxygenation. However, it is not the most direct or specific assessment for determining the need for supplemental oxygen in a patient with dyspnea.
D. Measuring oxygen saturation (using a pulse oximeter) provides a direct and objective assessment of the patient's oxygenation status. Normal oxygen saturation levels typically range from 95% to 100%. If the oxygen saturation is below the acceptable range (usually less than 92% in many clinical settings), this would indicate the need for supplemental oxygen.