The practical nurse (PN) is completing a focused assessment on a client who is prescribed oxygen at 3 liters per minute by nasal cannula. Which assessment finding by the PN requires immediate action?
The flowmeter shows 1 liter of oxygen being delivered.
There is no humidifier attached to the delivery system.
The client is lying in a supine position in the bed.
The cannula is pressed snugly against the client's cheeks.
The Correct Answer is A
This finding requires immediate action, as it indicates that the client is not receiving the prescribed amount of oxygen, which can compromise the oxygenation and perfusion of the tissues. The PN should adjust the flowmeter to deliver 3 liters per minute of oxygen, and check for any leaks or kinks in the tubing.
The other options are not correct because:
B. The absence of a humidifier does not require immediate action, as it is not a critical component of the oxygen delivery system. A humidifier can help moisten the dry oxygen and prevent mucosal irritation, but it is not essential for oxygenation.
C. The supine position does not require immediate action, as it is not a contraindication for oxygen therapy. The client may prefer this position for comfort or rest, and it does not affect the oxygen delivery or uptake.
D. The snug fit of the cannula does not require immediate action, as it is not a problem for oxygen therapy. The cannula should fit snugly against the client's cheeks to prevent dislodgment or slippage, and it does not interfere with the oxygen flow or diffusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Obtain emergency help. - This is the most urgent action as the client is unresponsive, and getting emergency assistance is crucial to providing immediate care.
B. Feel for a carotid pulse. - While assessing the pulse is important, if the client is unresponsive, the first step is to get emergency assistance.
C. Bring a glucometer to the room. - This action might be relevant for assessing specific conditions, but in this scenario, the priority is to seek immediate emergency assistance.
D. Check the blood pressure. - Assessing blood pressure is important, but in the case of an unresponsive client, seeking emergency help takes precedence for immediate assistance and care.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct - The absence of coarse crackles indicates that the airway has been cleared of secretions effectively, and the lung sounds are clearer.
B) Incorrect - An increase in respiratory rate could indicate distress rather than the effectiveness of the intervention.
C) Incorrect - An increase in breath sounds may not necessarily indicate the effectiveness of the intervention, as the quality of breath sounds matters more than the increase.
D) Incorrect - The absence of fine crackles might not directly indicate the effectiveness of the intervention, as other factors can influence lung sounds.
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