ATI RN
Oxygen NCLEX Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is receiving oxygen at 4 liters per minute via nasal cannula. Which finding should the nurse report immediately?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because lethargy and difficulty in arousing suggest hypoxia, a serious condition that requires immediate attention. This indicates oxygen saturation is inadequate despite oxygen therapy. A: Respiratory rate of 26 breaths per minute is elevated but not an immediate concern. B: Headache and dizziness can be symptoms of hypoxia but do not require immediate action. C: Oxygen saturation of 91% is slightly low but not critically low to warrant immediate intervention.
Question 2 of 5
A patient develops sudden hemoptysis and dyspnea. What should the nurse do first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Place the patient in an upright position. This step is crucial to optimize ventilation and oxygenation by reducing pressure on the lungs and promoting better airflow. Placing the patient upright helps to improve breathing and decrease the risk of aspiration. Calling the rapid response team (A) can be important but should come after ensuring the patient's immediate safety. Applying oxygen via nasal cannula (C) is essential, but positioning the patient upright should be the priority. Assessing for recent anticoagulant use (D) is important for determining potential causes of hemoptysis but does not address the immediate need to improve oxygenation.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with COPD is prescribed oxygen therapy. What is the most important instruction for the patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitor oxygen flow rate to ensure it does not exceed the prescribed level. This is crucial because excessive oxygen flow can lead to oxygen toxicity in COPD patients. Monitoring the flow rate ensures the patient receives the right amount of oxygen. A: Using oxygen continuously may not be necessary and can lead to oxygen dependence. C: Increasing oxygen flow during physical activity is not recommended without healthcare provider guidance. D: Removing the nasal cannula during meals can cause a drop in oxygen levels.
Question 4 of 5
Which instruction is most important for a patient with COPD using long-term oxygen therapy?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Do not adjust oxygen levels without consulting a provider. This is crucial because improper adjustments can lead to oxygen toxicity or inadequate oxygenation. Patients with COPD may have varying oxygen needs, so consulting a provider ensures appropriate therapy. A: Increasing oxygen flow during exercise may be necessary, but adjusting it without guidance can be harmful. C: Removing the nasal cannula during meals is not recommended as it may lead to oxygen desaturation. D: Limiting oxygen use to nighttime only is not suitable as COPD patients may require oxygen therapy throughout the day based on their condition.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse observes continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber of a chest tube. What is the next step?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct next step is to check for air leaks in the system (Choice C). Continuous bubbling in the water-seal chamber indicates an air leak. By checking for air leaks, the nurse can identify and address the source of the problem, ensuring the chest tube is functioning properly. Clamping the tube (Choice A) can lead to tension pneumothorax. Notifying the healthcare provider (Choice B) should be done after assessing and addressing immediate issues. Adding water to the chamber (Choice D) is incorrect as it can disrupt the water seal and lead to further issues.