A nurse is caring for a patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)who is receiving mechanical ventilation using synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV). The settings include fraction of inspired oxygen (FIO₂)of 80%,tidal volume of 450,rate of 16/minute,and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP)of 5 cm. Which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The FIO₂ of 80% increases the risk for O₂ toxicity. Because the patient's O₂ saturation is 99%,a decrease in FIO₂ is indicated to avoid toxicity. The other patient data would be typical for a patient with ARDS and would not be the most important data to report to the health care provider.

A Nurse Is Caring for a Patient with Acute Respiratory