A nurse is providing home care for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which of the following orders should the nurse question?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should question the order for oxygen at 4 L/min per nasal cannula. COPD patients can have chronic hypercapnia (elevated carbon dioxide levels) and rely on a low oxygen level to drive their respiratory effort. Administration of high flow oxygen can worsen hypercapnia and respiratory acidosis, which can be harmful. Oxygen should be given at a low flow rate and titrated to maintain an oxygen saturation of 88-92%.

A Nurse Is Providing Home Care for a Patient with Chronic