Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 77%
Full-length
A client diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is on home oxygen at 2 L per minute. The nurse assesses the client's respiratory rate at 22 breaths per minute. When the client reports an increase in the dyspnea, what should the nurse do initially?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Completing an assessment and collecting additional information regarding the client's respiratory status is the initial nursing action. The oxygen is not increased without validation of the need for further oxygen and the approval of the primary health care provider, especially because clients with COPD can retain carbon dioxide. Calling emergency services is a premature action. Reassuring the client is appropriate, but it is inappropriate to tell the client not to worry.