Final answer:
The finding that must be reported to the provider immediately following extubation is an oxygen saturation of 90%, as it signifies hypoxemia, which can indicate serious respiratory issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a nurse is caring for a client who was recently extubated, which of the following findings should be reported to the provider immediately? The answer is D) Oxygen saturation of 90%. This constitutes hypoxemia, which is a lower-than-normal level of oxygen in the blood and could be a sign of respiratory distress or complications post-extubation. While hoarseness and frequent coughing are also common symptoms to monitor after extubation, they do not typically require immediate reporting unless they are severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. A respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute is within the normal range and therefore not a cause for immediate concern.