health assessment in nursing test bank Related

Review health assessment in nursing test bank related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The nurse should prioritize which of the following interventions?

  • A. Administering supplemental oxygen as needed.
  • B. Encouraging regular physical activity.
  • C. Administering antibiotics regularly.
  • D. Providing increased fluid intake.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administering supplemental oxygen as needed. This is the priority intervention for a patient with COPD because it helps improve oxygenation and relieve respiratory distress, which is the main concern in COPD. Supplemental oxygen also helps reduce the workload on the heart and other organs. Encouraging physical activity (B) is important for overall health but may not be the priority in acute exacerbations. Administering antibiotics regularly (C) is not necessary unless there is a documented infection. Providing increased fluid intake (D) is important for maintaining hydration but is not the priority intervention in this case.