The nurse is providing care to a patient who is diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The patient's pulse oximetry is 93% on room air with a current respiratory rate of 35 breaths per minute. The most recent chest x-ray indicates a flattened diaphragm with infiltrates. The patient is currently febrile with an increased number of white blood cells (WBCs) noted on the latest complete blood count (CBC). Which order does the nurse question for this patient based on the current data?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For a patient with COPD, oxygen therapy needs to be carefully managed because their drive to breathe is often regulated by low oxygen levels rather than high carbon dioxide levels, as in healthy individuals. Administering oxygen at 3 to 4 L/min may elevate the patient's oxygen saturation above their normal range, potentially suppressing their drive to breathe and leading to carbon dioxide retention and respiratory failure. The other interventions (raising the head of the bed, adding humidification, and chest physiotherapy) are appropriate for managing symptoms and preventing complications in COPD.

The Nurse Is Providing Care to a Patient Who Is