Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 63%
Simulated
The nurse is assessing the client diagnosed with COPD. Which of the following would require immediate attention by the nurse?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Oxygen flowmeter set on 8 LPM is correct. High-flow oxygen can suppress the hypoxic drive in COPD clients, leading to respiratory depression. The nurse should immediately lower the oxygen to a safer level (typically 1-3 LPM) and monitor the client's respiratory status. Use of accessory muscles, thick white sputum, and barrel chest with clubbing are common in COPD but do not require immediate intervention compared to high oxygen flow.