Question

A nurse cares for a client with hepatopulmonary syndrome who is experiencing dyspnea with oxygen saturations at 92%. The client states, "I do not want to wear the oxygen because it causes my nose to bleed. Get out of my room and leave me alone!" Which action should the nurse take?

a.Instruct the client to sit in as upright a position as possible.
b.Add humidity to the oxygen and encourage the client to wear it.
c.Document the client's refusal, and call the health care provider.
d.Contact the provider to request an extra dose of the client's diuretic.

Answer 1

Add humidity to the oxygen and encourage the client to wear it to address the client's issues with nosebleeds while ensuring that their need for oxygen is met.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's question is about the appropriate nurse action when caring for a client with hepatopulmonary syndrome who is experiencing dyspnea (shortness of breath) with oxygen saturations at 92% and who refuses to wear oxygen because it causes nosebleeds. The correct answer is b. Add humidity to the oxygen and encourage the client to wear it. This action addresses the client's concern regarding nasal dryness and bleeding which can be mitigated by adding humidity to the supplied oxygen. Additionally, educating the client about the importance of maintaining proper oxygen levels to ensure adequate gas exchange and perfusion throughout the body would be beneficial. The nurse acting in this capacity demonstrates professionalism and a patient-centered approach to care while considering the comfort and specific needs of the client.