You have been called to a residence for a 63-year-old female with a history of COPD who is short of breath. The patient is moderately dyspneic with the following vital signs: pulse 124, respirations 20, blood pressure 162/56, and SpO₂ at 86%. She is using an oxygen concentrator set at 5 lpm. What is your best course of action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is experiencing significant hypoxia, as evidenced by the SpO2 of 86%. Removing the concentrator and administering high-concentration oxygen will provide a more effective and immediate way to increase the patient's oxygenation. Additionally, increasing the liter flow to 12 on a nonrebreather mask may not significantly increase the amount of oxygen delivered to the patient as the concentrator may not be able to provide that amount of oxygen. Transporting the patient without addressing this significant hypoxia can lead to further complications. Administering medical oxygen from the cylinder at the same rate as the concentrator may also not significantly increase the amount of oxygen to the patient.

You Have Been Called to a Residence for a 63-Year-Old