A patient is in respiratory distress and placed on oxygen.Which is the most appropriate short-term goal?
A) Nasal cannula remains in place.
B) Patient completes morning care and eats breakfast.
C) Patient verbalizes that he is breathing better after lunch.
D) Patient maintains an oxygen saturation of 90% during the shift.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a patient who is in respiratory distress, the most appropriate short-term goal is to ensure that the patient maintains an oxygen saturation of 90% or higher during the shift. This is because adequate oxygenation is essential for the functioning of all organs, especially the heart and brain. Maintaining an adequate oxygen saturation level will ensure that the patient's vital organs are receiving enough oxygen to function properly. The other options, such as keeping the nasal cannula in place or completing morning care and eating breakfast, are important but not as crucial as maintaining an adequate oxygen saturation level. Likewise, while it is important for the patient to feel better after lunch, this is not as important as ensuring adequate oxygenation.

A Patient Is in Respiratory Distress and Placed on Oxygen