Which oxygen delivery device is best suited for a patient who requires a precise concentration of oxygen?

A. Temperature of 101.8°F:A temperature above 100.4°F indicates continued fever and inflammation, suggesting the infection is still active. A persistent fever does not reflect clinical improvement and may warrant further assessment or intervention.

B. WBC count of 17,500/mm³:An elevated white blood cell count suggests ongoing infection or inflammation. Normal WBC counts typically range from 4,000 to 11,000/mm³. This elevated value indicates the body is still actively fighting an illness.

C. Respiratory rate of 28:A normal adult respiratory rate is 12–20 breaths per minute. A rate of 28 suggests the patient is still experiencing respiratory distress, possibly due to hypoxia or infection, which does not indicate improvement.

D. Oxygen saturation of 94% on 2L/nasal cannula:An SpO₂ of 94% on low-flow oxygen shows that the patient is maintaining adequate oxygenation with minimal support. This indicates an improving respiratory status and better gas exchange, reflecting clinical progress.

A. Obtain the patient's vital signs:While monitoring vital signs is important, especially for detecting hypovolemia or underlying causes like hypertension, it is not the immediate priority. The nurse must first attempt to control the bleeding to prevent aspiration and continued blood loss.

B. Apply a cold compress to the patient's facial area:Cold compresses can help constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding, but they are supportive measures. They should be done afterprimary pressure techniques have been initiated, not as the first-line intervention.

C. Firmly pack the nostril with saline soaked gauze:Nasal packing is typically a secondary measure used when direct pressure fails to stop the bleeding. It is more invasive and usually performed by trained personnel if conservative measures are ineffective.

D. Instruct the client to sit forward and pinch the nose below the nasal bone:Sitting forward prevents blood from flowing into the throat and airway, while pinching the soft part of the nose applies direct pressure to the bleeding vessels, which often successfully stops epistaxis.