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Summary
Summary ( 9 Questions)
A nurse is assessing a client who has a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Which finding should the nurse report to the provider immediately?
This is a common finding in clients with COPD, due to the increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest caused by air trapping and hyperinflation of the lungs. It does not require immediate intervention.
This is a sign of chronic hypoxia and is often seen in clients with COPD. It results from the proliferation of connective tissue at the base of the nails due to chronic low oxygen levels. It does not require immediate intervention.
Cyanosis of the lips and nail beds indicates severe hypoxia and requires immediate intervention. The nurse should report this finding to the provider and administer oxygen as prescribed.
This is an expected finding in clients with COPD, due to the narrowing of the airways caused by inflammation, mucus production, and bronchospasm. It does not require immediate intervention.
Cyanosis of the lips and nail beds
Rationale: Cyanosis of the lips and nail beds indicates severe hypoxia and requires immediate intervention. The nurse should report this finding to the provider and administer oxygen as prescribed.
Incorrect options:
A) Barrel-shaped chest - This is a common finding in clients with COPD, due to the increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest caused by air trapping and hyperinflation of the lungs. It does not require immediate intervention.
B) Clubbing of the fingers - This is a sign of chronic hypoxia and is often seen in clients with COPD. It results from the proliferation of connective tissue at the base of the nails due to chronic low oxygen levels. It does not require immediate intervention.
D) Wheezes on auscultation - This is an expected finding in clients with COPD, due to the narrowing of the airways caused by inflammation, mucus production, and bronchospasm. It does not require immediate intervention.