You are by the side of a 77-year-old male with the complaint of shortness of breath. Auscultation of his lungs indicates crackles in the bases. In addition, both of his feet are swollen. His SpO₂ on room air is 82% and the remainder of his vitals are: pulse 144 , respirations 26, and blood pressure 168/90 mmHg. He is complaining of lower-back pain with a history of a "pinched nerve" in that area. He continues to state that he always has this pain. He has difficulty finishing his sentences without gasping for air. Which of the following is the most appropriate care for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Transporting the patient in an upright position can help improve breathing by allowing better lung expansion and reducing the work of breathing, which is crucial given his respiratory distress and low oxygen saturation.

You Are by the Side of a 77-Year-Old Male with the Complaint