Burns Pediatric Primary Care 7th Edition Test Bank Related

Review Burns Pediatric Primary Care 7th Edition Test Bank related questions and content

What is the best initial action for the nurse to take?

  • A. Try to have the client breathe slower or
  • B. Give O2 via nasal cannula into the paper bag
  • C. Administer sodium bicarbonate
  • D. Monitor the client's fluid balance
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The best initial action for the nurse to take when a client is experiencing hyperventilation is to try to have the client breathe slower. This is because hyperventilation is often caused by rapid, shallow breathing and slowing down the breathing pattern can help restore normal gas exchange and alleviate symptoms. Providing oxygen via a nasal cannula or administering sodium bicarbonate would not directly address the underlying issue of hyperventilation. Monitoring fluid balance is important for overall assessment but not the priority when dealing with acute respiratory distress due to hyperventilation.