NCLEX RN Physiological Integrity Related

Review NCLEX RN Physiological Integrity related questions and content

The home care nurse assesses a client diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is reporting increased dyspnea. The client is on home oxygen via a concentrator at 2 L per minute, and has a respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute. Which action should the nurse take?

  • A. Determine the need to increase the oxygen.
  • B. Reassure the client that there is no need to worry.
  • C. Conduct further assessment of the client's respiratory status.
  • D. Call emergency services to take the client to the emergency department.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: With the client's respiratory rate at 22 breaths per minute, the nurse should obtain further assessment. Oxygen is not increased without the approval of the primary health care provider, especially because the client with COPD can retain carbon dioxide. Reassuring the client that there is 'no need to worry' is inappropriate. Calling emergency services is a premature action.