A nurse is caring for a patient who has been hospitalized for an acute asthma exacerbation. Which testing method might the nurse use to measure the patient's oxygen saturation?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive method to measure oxygen saturation in the blood by using a sensor on the patient's finger. 2. It is commonly used in assessing respiratory conditions like asthma exacerbation to monitor oxygen levels. 3. Thoracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid from the pleural space, not for measuring oxygen saturation. 4. Diffusion capacity measures how well oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged in the lungs, not oxygen saturation. 5. Maximal respiratory pressure assesses the strength of respiratory muscles, not oxygen saturation. Summary: Pulse oximetry is the correct choice as it is a non-invasive method to measure oxygen saturation, which is crucial in assessing and managing respiratory conditions like acute asthma exacerbation. Thoracentesis, diffusion capacity, and maximal respiratory pressure are not appropriate for measuring oxygen saturation in this context.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because wheezing after albuterol treatment in a patient with asthma indicates possible worsening or insufficient response to treatment, requiring immediate assessment to prevent respiratory distress. Choice A is incorrect as a weak cough in a patient with bronchitis does not indicate immediate risk. Choice B is incorrect as an O2 saturation of 90% in a patient with emphysema is concerning but not as urgent as worsening wheezing in asthma. Choice D is incorrect as crackles in the right lung base in a patient with pneumonia would require assessment but is not as urgent as addressing potential respiratory distress in an asthmatic patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer a short-acting beta-agonist inhaler. This is the priority action because wheezing and shortness of breath indicate an exacerbation of asthma, which requires immediate bronchodilation to relieve symptoms. Administering a short-acting beta-agonist inhaler helps open the airways quickly, providing rapid relief. Assessing the peak flow reading (B) can provide valuable information but is not the priority when the patient is experiencing acute symptoms. Encouraging the patient to drink warm fluids (C) may provide comfort but does not address the urgent need for bronchodilation. Notifying the health care provider immediately (D) is important but should not delay the administration of bronchodilator therapy for acute asthma exacerbation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Albuterol (Ventolin), because it is a short-acting bronchodilator that provides immediate relief by dilating the airways during an acute asthma exacerbation. This helps improve airflow and relieve symptoms quickly. Ipratropium (A) is another bronchodilator but is not as fast-acting as albuterol. Salmeterol (B) is a long-acting bronchodilator used for maintenance therapy, not for immediate relief during an acute attack. Montelukast (C) is a leukotriene receptor antagonist and is not a bronchodilator; it is used for long-term asthma control, not for acute exacerbations.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B Rationale: 1. Taking one puff and waiting 5 minutes before a second puff is incorrect as rescue inhalers are meant for immediate relief during asthma attacks. 2. Choice A is correct as using the inhaler before exercise can prevent exercise-induced symptoms. 3. Choice C is correct as cleaning the mouthpiece prevents clogging and ensures proper functioning. 4. Choice D is correct as using the inhaler when feeling short of breath is the appropriate time for immediate relief.