Question

Throughout a nurse's shift, a client has increasing shortness of breath & labored breathing associated with coughing. The client requires frequent re-positioning & assistance with ADL's. What is the priority nursing diagnosis for this client?

Answer 1

The priority nursing diagnosis for this client is Impaired Gas Exchange. This condition can lead to inadequate oxygenation of tissues and requires immediate attention. Nurses will monitor the client's oxygen saturation levels and provide treatments to optimize gas exchange.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority nursing diagnosis for this client is Impaired Gas Exchange.

The client's increasing shortness of breath and labored breathing indicate poor gas exchange in the lungs. This can be caused by conditions such as pneumonia or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The client's need for frequent re-positioning and assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) suggests that their breathing difficulty is severe and requires immediate attention.

Impaired Gas Exchange can lead to inadequate oxygenation of tissues, which can be life-threatening. Nurses will monitor the client's oxygen saturation levels, administer respiratory treatments, and provide support to optimize gas exchange.