HESI 799 RN Exit Exam Related

Review HESI 799 RN Exit Exam related questions and content

The nurse is assessing a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is receiving supplemental oxygen. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

  • A. Elevate the head of the bed.
  • B. Administer oxygen therapy as prescribed.
  • C. Assess the client's oxygen saturation.
  • D. Obtain an arterial blood gas (ABG) sample.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Assessing the client's oxygen saturation is the first priority in managing a client with COPD receiving supplemental oxygen to ensure adequate oxygenation. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels helps in determining the effectiveness of the oxygen therapy and if adjustments are needed. Elevating the head of the bed can help with breathing but is not the first priority. Administering oxygen therapy as prescribed is important, but assessing the current oxygen saturation comes before administering more oxygen. Obtaining an arterial blood gas (ABG) sample may provide valuable information, but it is not the initial intervention needed in this situation.