Practice Questions for Respiratory System Related

Review Practice Questions for Respiratory System related questions and content

A long-term COPD client is receiving oxygen at 1 L/minute. Her visiting cousin decides she "doesn't look too good" and increases her oxygen to 7 L/minute. What should the nurse's initial action be?

  • A. Thank the client's cousin and continue to observe the client.
  • B. Immediately decrease the oxygen.
  • C. Notify the physician.
  • D. Elevate the client's head and take vital signs.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Immediately decrease the oxygen. Increasing oxygen without physician's order can lead to oxygen toxicity in COPD patients. Step-by-step rationale: 1. Assess the client's condition. 2. Determine the client's baseline oxygen therapy. 3. Recognize that sudden increase in oxygen can suppress the respiratory drive in COPD patients. 4. Decrease oxygen to the prescribed level. Summary: A: Inadequate response, as oxygen adjustment is necessary. C: Not immediate action, physician notification can follow. D: Pertinent to assess, but not the initial action needed in this scenario.