Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 87%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has returned to the unit on a stretcher following a surgical procedure. The client's oxygen saturation is 85%. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
Administering analgesics is not a priority in managing low oxygen saturation. Administering oxygen is important but should follow positioning to improve oxygenation. Raising the head of the bed improves lung expansion and is the priority intervention. Coughing and deep breathing can follow after oxygenation is stabilized.