Respiratory System NCLEX Questions Related

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The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with pneumonia who is having shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

  • A. Take the client's vital signs.
  • B. Check the client's pulse oximeter reading.
  • C. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula.
  • D. Notify the respiratory therapist STAT.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Administering oxygen (C) is the first intervention for a pneumonia patient with shortness of breath to correct hypoxemia, per the ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation). Checking pulse oximetry (B) assesses oxygenation but delays treatment. Vital signs (A) and notifying the therapist (D) are secondary to immediate oxygen delivery.