A nurse is caring for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The patient's O2 saturation is 88%. What should the nurse do first?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer a nebulized bronchodilator first. In COPD, bronchodilators help improve airflow by relaxing the muscles around the airways. This can help improve oxygenation levels. Before increasing oxygen flow rate or encouraging deep breathing, it is essential to address the underlying issue of airway constriction. Nebulized bronchodilators act quickly to provide relief and improve oxygen saturation. Administering a short-acting bronchodilator (choice C) could also be beneficial, but nebulized bronchodilators are typically more effective in severe cases. Encouraging deep breathing exercises (choice D) can be helpful in the long term but may not address the immediate need for improved oxygenation in this situation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Perform a neurological exam. This is the priority action because the patient's symptoms of slurred speech and weakness indicate a potential stroke recurrence. By performing a neurological exam, the nurse can assess the patient's current neurological status, determine the severity of the symptoms, and identify any signs of worsening condition or complications. This information is crucial for timely intervention and management of the patient's condition. Summary: B: Notifying the healthcare provider can be important but assessing the patient's neurological status is the immediate priority. C: Administering insulin therapy is not indicated for slurred speech and weakness in a patient with a history of stroke. D: Administering IV fluids and monitoring blood glucose is not the priority action in this situation; neurological assessment takes precedence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer a bronchodilator. This is the priority intervention because the patient is experiencing difficulty breathing, indicating an asthma exacerbation. Administering a bronchodilator helps to open up the airways and improve breathing. It targets the underlying cause of the respiratory distress. Administering IV fluids (choices B and C) may be necessary for hydration but is not the priority in this situation. Administering pain relief (choice D) is not appropriate as the priority is addressing the breathing difficulty.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Metabolic alkalosis requires ABG confirmation to assess pH and CO₂ levels, guiding treatment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: An SpO₂ of 89% indicates hypoxemia, requiring immediate action to improve oxygenation.