179k views
5 votes
A nurse provides instruction to a client with COPD about home oxygen therapy. Which statement made by the client indicates need for further instruction?

a. I should limit activity as much as possible
b. If I have trouble breathing, I need to call the doctor
c. I need to drink lots of fluids to keep my mucus thin
d. I can apply petroleum jelly to my nose if the oxygen dries it out
e. I should wear a scarf over my nose and mouth in cold weather
f. If I get a flu shot, I do not have to worry about being around people with colds

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

The client's statement about using petroleum jelly indicates a need for further instruction due to the flammability risk with home oxygen therapy. The misconception about flu shots also requires correction, as good hygiene and avoiding sick people remains necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement made by the client that indicates a need for further instruction about home oxygen therapy for COPD is: "I can apply petroleum jelly to my nose if the oxygen dries it out." Petroleum jelly is flammable and should not be used in the presence of oxygen therapy. Water-based products are recommended for dryness around the nose to prevent any risk of combustion. Additionally, the statement "If I get a flu shot, I do not have to worry about being around people with colds" also indicates a misconception. While getting a flu shot is important, it does not provide protection against other respiratory infections like the common cold, and precautions should still be taken. People with COPD should still practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with people who are sick to prevent further complications.

Another common piece of advice for COPD management includes avoiding smoking, which clogs the bronchial tubes and compromises the lungs' ability to function at its full capacity. The promotion of fluids and rest is consistent with the need to keep mucus thin to alleviate some of the symptoms of respiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia.

Limiting activity as much as possible is not advised; rather, individuals with COPD should maintain a moderate level of activity as tolerated, to keep muscles strong and improve overall health and lung function.

User CoyBit
by
8.9k points