A nurse is providing care for an individual admitted with an acute asthma attack. Arterial blood gas (ABG) results indicate pH = 7.33; CO₂ = 49; HCO₃ = 26; and oxygen saturation is 87%. After initiating treatment with intravenous (IV) fluids, bronchodilators, and oxygen therapy at 4 L via nasal cannula (NC), the patient's repeat ABG results are pH = 7.35; CO₂ = 47; HCO₃ = 26; and oxygen saturation is 89%. Which of the following actions should the nurse take next?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The next appropriate action for the nurse would be to assess the patient's respiratory and cardiovascular status and the oxygen delivery equipment. While the patient's ABG results have slightly improved, the oxygen saturation is still below the normal range, indicating the need for continued monitoring and interventions. The patient's respiratory and cardiovascular assessments can provide important information about the effectiveness of the current treatment regimen and the need for additional interventions. It is also important to evaluate the oxygen delivery equipment to ensure that it is functioning properly and providing the prescribed amount of oxygen to the patient. Therefore, option D is the best choice. Options A and C are not appropriate as the patient's condition has not worsened, and there is no indication of the need for ICU or family notification. Option B is insufficient as it does not address the need for ongoing nursing assessments and interventions.

A Nurse Is Providing Care for an Individual Admitted with an Acute