The nurse is planning the care of a complex elderly patient who has been admitted to the medical ward for the treatment of cellulitis. The nurse notes that the patient has a longstanding history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
What assessment finding would most clearly indicate the need for oxygen therapy?
A) SaO2 of 86 on room air
B) Respiratory rate (RR) of 25 breaths per minute at rest
C) Presence of bilateral fine crackles to lower lung fields on auscultation
D) Presence of an occasional productive cough
Question 2
A patient, age 45, is to have a myelogram to confirm the presence of a herniated intervertebral disk. Which nursing action should be planned for her with respect to this diagnostic test?
a. Obtain an allergy history before the test.
b. Ambulate the patient when she is returned to her room after the test.
c. Warn her that paralysis could result from injection of the contrast medium.
d. Keep her NPO for 6 to 8 hours after the test.