Nokea
When covering another nurse's assignment during a lunch break, based on the status report provided, which client should the charge nurse check first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because a pneumothorax with a pulse oximeter reading of 90% indicates potential respiratory compromise, requiring immediate attention to prevent further deterioration. A pneumothorax can lead to decreased oxygenation, which is critical for the client's health and needs prompt intervention. Checking this client first is essential to ensure timely management and prevent any adverse outcomes.
Choice A is incorrect because a blood glucose level of 195 mg/dl in a client with diabetic ketoacidosis, while elevated, does not pose an immediate threat to life compared to respiratory compromise.
Choice B is incorrect as a scant amount of blood in the drainage pouch does not indicate an urgent situation or immediate risk to the client's health.
Choice C is incorrect as serosanguinous drainage in a chest tube post-triple coronary bypass, while requiring monitoring, does not indicate an immediate need for intervention compared to a potential respiratory compromise in choice D.