Final answer:
To assess the effectiveness of treatment for a client on mechanical ventilation, the nurse should measure respiratory volumes, conduct spirometry and pulmonary function tests, analyze blood gases, listen for abnormal lung sounds with a stethoscope, evaluate chest radiographs, and use a pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen saturation levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best method for a nurse to determine the effectiveness of current treatment for a client in acute respiratory failure and on mechanical ventilation includes several assessments. These include measuring respiratory volumes such as Total Lung Capacity (TLC) and Functional Residual Capacity (FRC), using tools like spirometry and pulmonary function tests to assess spirometric values like Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1) and Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), and monitoring blood gases to check for hypoxemia.
Moreover, clinical observations such as using a stethoscope to listen for abnormal lung sounds and evaluating chest radiographs can provide additional information about the patient's lung condition. Furthermore, a nurse should monitor the patient's oxygen saturation levels using a pulse oximeter, which is crucial for ensuring effective oxygenation.