HESI RN CAT Exit Exam Related

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A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is receiving oxygen at 2 liters per minute by nasal cannula. The client develops respiratory distress and the nurse increases the oxygen to 4 liters per minute. Shortly afterward, the client becomes lethargic and confused. What action should the nurse take first?

  • A. Reposition the nasal cannula
  • B. Lower the oxygen rate
  • C. Encourage the client to cough and deep breathe
  • D. Monitor the client's oxygen saturation level
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lower the oxygen rate. Increasing oxygen flow too quickly can lead to oxygen toxicity in COPD patients, causing symptoms like lethargy and confusion. Lowering the oxygen rate will help alleviate the symptoms and prevent further harm. Repositioning the nasal cannula (choice A) is not the priority in this situation. Encouraging coughing and deep breathing (choice C) may not address the immediate issue of oxygen toxicity. Monitoring oxygen saturation (choice D) is important but should follow lowering the oxygen rate to address the current symptoms.