The nurse is providing care to a patient who is diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).The nurse assesses the patient's breathing rate at 32 breaths per minute.The patient is also experiencing hypertension and fatigue.Which nursing diagnosis is a priority when planning care for this patient?

Question

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The patient's breathing rate of 32 breaths per minute indicates an ineffective breathing pattern, which is a priority nursing diagnosis for a patient with COPD. This condition can cause fatigue and hypertension, along with other symptoms. Anxiety and ineffective coping may also be secondary diagnoses but addressing the ineffective breathing pattern is the priority. Ineffective airway clearance may also be a concern but not the priority in this patient.

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