The nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of a bronchodilator for a client with COPD. Which finding indicates improvement?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is option B) Oxygen saturation improved to 94%. This finding indicates improvement in a client with COPD who is being treated with a bronchodilator. The rationale behind this is that in COPD, impaired gas exchange is a common problem due to airway obstruction and decreased lung function. By improving oxygen saturation, the bronchodilator is effectively helping the client to oxygenate better, which is a critical goal in managing COPD. Option A) Heart rate increased to 100 beats per minute is incorrect because an increased heart rate may indicate tachycardia, which could be a sign of distress or inadequate response to the medication. Option C) Client reports mild dizziness is incorrect as dizziness is not a typical sign of improvement in COPD with bronchodilator therapy. Option D) Respiratory rate increased to 24 breaths per minute is incorrect because an increased respiratory rate may suggest respiratory distress rather than improvement in oxygenation status. Educationally, understanding the expected outcomes of bronchodilator therapy in COPD is crucial for nurses caring for these patients. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels is a key assessment parameter to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of managing asthma with inhaled corticosteroids, option B, "Rinse your mouth after each use of the inhaler," is the correct teaching point that the nurse should emphasize. This is because inhaled corticosteroids can lead to oral thrush or fungal infections in the mouth due to their local effects on mucous membranes. Rinsing the mouth after each use helps to minimize this risk and maintain oral health. Option A, "Use the corticosteroid only during an asthma attack," is incorrect because inhaled corticosteroids are typically used on a daily basis as maintenance therapy to reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma attacks. Using them only during an attack would not provide the intended long-term benefits. Option C, "Shake the inhaler and exhale quickly before using," is incorrect as shaking the inhaler is typically necessary for metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) but not specifically for inhaled corticosteroids. Exhaling quickly before using the inhaler is also not a standard instruction for inhaled corticosteroids. Option D, "Use the corticosteroid before the bronchodilator," is incorrect because inhaled corticosteroids are usually recommended to be used before bronchodilators to allow for better penetration of the corticosteroid into the airways and optimize their effectiveness in reducing inflammation. In an educational context, emphasizing the importance of rinsing the mouth after using inhaled corticosteroids helps to prevent potential side effects and complications, promoting adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen and overall better outcomes in managing asthma. It is crucial for nurses to provide clear and accurate teaching points to empower patients in self-management and promote their understanding of asthma therapy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Take a deep breath and hold it for 10 seconds. After using a rescue inhaler for asthma, it is important for the client to hold their breath for about 10 seconds to allow the medication to reach deep into the lungs for optimal effectiveness. This technique ensures that the medication is delivered to where it is needed most to help alleviate asthma symptoms quickly. Option B) Exhale quickly to clear the lungs is incorrect because exhaling quickly after using the inhaler can actually expel the medication before it has a chance to work effectively. This can lead to reduced therapeutic effects of the medication and may not provide the desired relief for the client's asthma symptoms. Option C) Rinse their mouth with water is incorrect as it is a recommended step after using corticosteroid inhalers, not rescue inhalers. Rescue inhalers typically contain bronchodilators and rinsing the mouth is not necessary after their use. Option D) Take another puff immediately without waiting is incorrect because it is essential to follow the prescribed dosing instructions for the rescue inhaler. Taking another puff immediately without waiting can lead to an overdose of medication and may cause adverse effects on the client's health. Educationally, understanding the proper technique for using a rescue inhaler is crucial for clients with asthma to effectively manage their condition. Teaching clients the correct steps ensures they receive the maximum benefit from their medication and can better control their asthma symptoms. It is important for healthcare providers to provide clear and accurate instructions to clients to promote proper self-management of their asthma.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Recognizing triggers that cause asthma attacks. In the context of a client with chronic asthma, identifying and managing triggers is crucial for asthma control and prevention of exacerbations. By understanding what factors can worsen their asthma symptoms, the client can take proactive steps to avoid these triggers, leading to better disease management. Option A) Maintaining a regular exercise routine is important for overall health, but it may not be the priority goal when addressing asthma control. While exercise is beneficial, the focus should initially be on trigger identification and avoidance. Option B) Complying with medication instructions is essential for managing asthma; however, without knowing the triggers that worsen the condition, medication adherence alone may not provide optimal control. Option D) Understanding the physical limitations caused by the disease is important for the client's overall well-being, but in terms of immediate priority, recognizing triggers takes precedence as it directly impacts asthma control and prevention of exacerbations. In an educational context, this question emphasizes the significance of trigger management in asthma care. It highlights the importance of patient education in empowering individuals with chronic conditions to actively participate in their care by identifying and mitigating factors that can exacerbate their health issues. This rationale underscores the foundational role of trigger recognition in asthma self-management, which is a key aspect of nursing practice when caring for clients with respiratory conditions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this NCLEX Oxygenation practice question, the correct answer is B) Identifying and avoiding environmental triggers are the best way to prevent symptoms of allergic rhinitis. This answer is correct because allergic rhinitis is primarily triggered by environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, etc. By identifying and avoiding these triggers, the patient can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of their symptoms. Option A is incorrect because while oral antihistamines can help manage symptoms, using them preventively for 2 weeks before the allergy season may not be the most effective approach for all patients. Option C is incorrect because while hand washing is important for preventing the spread of infections, it is not a primary strategy for managing allergic rhinitis, which is an immune response to allergens rather than a contagious condition. Option D is incorrect because while corticosteroid nasal sprays can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, the systemic effects associated with their use may limit their long-term use due to potential side effects. In an educational context, teaching patients about environmental triggers and how to avoid them is crucial in managing allergic rhinitis effectively. It empowers patients to take control of their condition and reduce their reliance on medications, leading to better overall outcomes and quality of life.