A patient's oxygen saturation is 98, but the patient reports ...

[kaid0807]

A patient's oxygen saturation is 98, but the patient reports shortness of breath with activity. What action by the nurse is best?
 
  a. Assess the patient's hemoglobin.
  b. Apply oxygen at 2L/nasal cannula.
  c. Consult respiratory therapy.
  d. Administer a bronchodilator.

Question 2

An older adult patient is having difficulty remembering when to take several of the prescribed medications. To improve the patient's compliance with the medication regimen, the nurse
 
  a. asks the patient's spouse to consistently administer the drugs.
  b. checks the drug guide to see if decreasing the frequency if the drugs is possible.
  c. informs the patient's physician about the drug noncompliance.
  d. teaches the patient to administer daily pills with a pill dispenser.

[aprice35067]

Answer to Question 1

A
If the patient's hemoglobin is low, there may not be sufficient oxygen in the blood for the pa-tient's needs. The nurse assesses the hemoglobin level. Applying oxygen may help the patient feel better but does not get to the root of the problem. Respiratory therapy and a bronchodilator are not indicated.

Answer to Question 2

D
The regimen should be simplified as much as possible; using a drug dispenser could make the daily process less complicated. If the patient is still unable to manage this task, the nurse could consult with the provider about decreasing frequency or changing medications, or the nurse could ask the spouse to administer the medications if this were acceptable to the patient. But the easiest and most cost-effective action is to try a pill dispenser.