A patient admitted with an elevated ST-segment myocardial infarction (MI) on oxygen per nasal cannula for his diagnosed influenza is complaining of shortness of breath with an oxygen saturation of 88%.Respiratory therapy administers an albuterol treatment that provides no change in the oxygen saturation.What is the next best action by the RN is best?
A)Obtain a 12-lead ECG.
B)Notify the health care provider.
C)Call the patient's wife to have her sit with him to calm him.
D)Ask the UAP to obtain a blood glucose level.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because this patient was admitted with an MI, evolution of the MI should be ruled out as the source of the shortness of breath.Notifying the health care provider should be taken after obtaining all the information necessary.The other options do not address the possible underlying problem.

A Patient Admitted with an Elevated ST-Segment Myocardial Infarction (MI)