Question

A nurse in a provider's office is reviewing the medical record of a client who has COPD. Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?

A) Increased respiratory rate
B) History of smoking
C) Recent weight loss
D) Frequent use of bronchodilators

Answer 1

The priority for the nurse to report to the provider is an increased respiratory rate, as it may indicate an acute exacerbation or a serious condition requiring immediate attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

When reviewing the medical record of a client with COPD, the priority for the nurse to report to the provider is A) Increased respiratory rate. This finding may indicate an acute exacerbation of COPD or another serious condition such as pneumonia, which can substantially compromise a patient's respiratory status. Recent weight loss and frequent use of bronchodilators might be concerning but are part of the chronic management of COPD. A history of smoking is a known risk factor for developing COPD and should be documented but is not a priority over an acute change in the patient's condition.