While caring for a patient who has been admitted with a pulmonary embolism,the nurse notes a change in the patient's oxygen saturation (SpO₂)from 94% to 88%.Which action should the nurse take next?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Increasing oxygen flow rate will usually improve oxygen saturation in patients with ventilation-perfusion mismatch,as occurs with pulmonary embolism.Because the problem is with perfusion,actions that improve ventilation,such as deep breathing and coughing,sitting upright,and suctioning,are not likely to improve oxygenation.

While Caring for a Patient Who Has Been Admitted with a Pulmonary