HESI Fundamental Practice Exam Related

Review HESI Fundamental Practice Exam related questions and content

A client with pneumonia has a decrease in oxygen saturation from 94% to 88% while ambulating. Based on these findings, which intervention should the LPN/LVN implement first?

  • A. Assist the ambulating client back to the bed.
  • B. Encourage the client to ambulate to resolve pneumonia.
  • C. Obtain a prescription for portable oxygen while ambulating.
  • D. Move the oximetry probe from the finger to the earlobe.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct intervention is to assist the client back to bed. A decrease in oxygen saturation while ambulating indicates hypoxemia, and the immediate priority is to stabilize oxygen levels. Returning the client to bed allows for rest and decreased oxygen demand, potentially preventing further desaturation. Encouraging continued ambulation (Choice B) may worsen the hypoxemia by increasing oxygen demand. Obtaining portable oxygen (Choice C) is essential but should not delay addressing the low oxygen saturation. Moving the oximetry probe (Choice D) may not address the underlying cause of decreased oxygen saturation and should not be the first intervention.