Free Medical Surgical Certification Practice Questions Related

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A client has an oxygen saturation of 88% on room air. Which action should the nurse take first?

  • A. Initiate oxygen therapy at 2 liters per minute via nasal cannula.
  • B. Place the client in a high-Fowler's position.
  • C. Notify the healthcare provider.
  • D. Document the finding in the client's medical record.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Initiate oxygen therapy at 2 liters per minute via nasal cannula. Oxygen saturation of 88% indicates hypoxemia and requires immediate intervention. Providing supplemental oxygen via nasal cannula will help improve oxygenation. Placing the client in high-Fowler's position may help with ventilation but addressing hypoxemia is the priority. Notifying the healthcare provider is important but immediate intervention is necessary. Documenting the finding is important but should not delay providing oxygen therapy.