Question

The nurse has admitted a patient (who takes ipratropium) to the respiratory unit with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While writing a plan of care for this patient, what would be the most appropriate nursing diagnosis to use? A) Deficient knowledge regarding alternative therapy B) Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements C) Acute pain related to renal effects of the drug D) Disturbed thought processes related to central nervous system (CNS) effects

Answer 1

The most appropriate nursing diagnoses for a patient with an acute exacerbation of COPD who takes ipratropium may include Ineffective Airway Clearance, Impaired Gas Exchange, and Activity Intolerance.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a patient with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)who uses ipratropium, an appropriate nursing diagnosis would be Ineffective Airway Clearance. This is due to excessive secretions and bronchoconstriction observed in this disease. Some patients may also exhibit signs of Impaired Gas Exchange due to difficulties in oxygen transfer on a pulmonary level.

Furthermore, as the patient's disease exacerbates, another possible nursing diagnosis could be Activity Intolerance related to imbalanced oxygen supply and demand. Other possible diagnoses such as 'Deficient Knowledge regarding alternative therapy', 'Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than body requirements', 'Acute pain related to renal effects of the drug', or 'Disturbed thought processes related to central nervous system (CNS) effects' could be relevant depending on the patient's overall health status and specific symptoms presented.

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