A nurse assesses a patient with a respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute. What is the priority action?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A respiratory rate of 8 is abnormally low (hypoventilation). Checking pulse oximetry first assesses oxygenation status, guiding further actions like oxygen administration or physician notification.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Anemia reduces hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component of blood, directly impairing oxygenation, unlike blood pressure, airway issues, or fluid overload.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Carbon monoxide poisoning causes cherry-red lips due to carboxyhemoglobin formation, impairing oxygen delivery. This is a specific, priority sign over fever, tachycardia, or hypotension.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Respiratory infections can cause mucus plugging and airway obstruction, leading to atelectasis (lung collapse), more than hypertension, bradycardia, or hyperglycemia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A rate of 30 breaths per minute is hyperventilation (normal is 12-20), increasing oxygen intake, unlike hypoventilation, normal breathing, or apnea.