The oxygen saturation (SpO2) for a patient with left lower lobe ...

[sammy]

The oxygen saturation (SpO2) for a patient with left lower lobe pneumonia is 90. The patient has rhonchi, a weak cough effort, and complains of fatigue. Which action is a priority for the nurse to take?
 
  a. Position the patient on the left side.
  b. Assist the patient with staged coughing.
  c. Place a humidifier in the patient's room.
  d. Schedule a 2-hour rest period for the patient.

Question 2

When admitting a patient with possible respiratory failure with a high PaCO2, which assessment information should be immediately reported to the health care provider?
 
  a. The patient is somnolent.
  b. The patient complains of weakness.
  c. The patient's blood pressure is 164/98.
  d. The patient's oxygen saturation is 90.

[lou]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The patient's assessment indicates that assisted coughing is needed to help remove secretions, which will improve oxygenation. A 2-hour rest period at this time may allow the oxygen saturation to drop further. Humidification will not be helpful unless the secretions can be mobilized. Positioning on the left side may cause a further decrease in oxygen saturation because perfusion will be directed more toward the more poorly ventilated lung.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Increasing somnolence will decrease the patient's respiratory rate and further increase the PaCO2 and respiratory failure. Rapid action is needed to prevent respiratory arrest. An SpO2 of 90, weakness, and elevated blood pressure all require ongoing monitoring but are not indicators of possible impending respiratory arrest.