Question

The nurse notes the following findings when assessing a patient with COPD. Which require prompt nursing intervention? ( Select all that apply.)

a. The patient’s forced vital capacity has increased from 2.8 to 3.4 L.

b. The patient has become confused and mildly disoriented.

c. The patient’s sputum has turned from yellow to greenish-brown.

d. The patient has stridor with wheezes heard in all lung fields.

e. The patient’s fingernails are noticeably clubbed.

f. The patient is unable to speak without gasping.

Answer 1

The forced vital capacity if uncreased is a good sign but it should not decrease

Confusion and mild disorientation is an alerting sign to assess fir any abnormality in the patient. Because excess oxygenation can lead to confusion.

Sputum turning from yellow to gree is a sign of bacterial infection and can be treated and bot an urgent situation

The clubbing of nails is common in COPD patients due to deprivation of oxygen fir a prolonged period of time and disturbed capilary circulation

Patient unable to speak without gasping should be attended immediately

Ans:The patient has become confused and mildly disoriented

The patient is unable to speak without gasping