Question

An elderly woman is hospitalized with pneumonia and anemia, and has a history of heart failure. She is weak and has a poor cough effort. Her current vital signs are temperature 100.2 ˚F (37.9 ˚C), pulse 114, respiration 26, blood pressure 106/58. She has oxygen ordered at 2 liters by nasal cannula. Her oxygen saturation measures 88% when on room air, 93% with supplemental oxygen. She develops shortness of breath on any activity and eats little because it is difficult for her to eat and breathe at the same time. Which of the following are risk factors for this patient developing hypoxia? (Select all that apply.)

A. Anemia
B. Tachycardia
C. Increased secretions with weak cough.
D. Impaired cardiac function.
E. Shortness of breath.
F. Pneumonia

Answer 1

The elderly woman's risk factors for developing hypoxia include anemia, impaired cardiac function, shortness of breath, and pneumonia, all contributing to poor oxygenation levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

The risk factors for the elderly woman developing hypoxia in the context of her present clinical condition include: A. Anemia - which can reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, D.

Impaired cardiac function - as a history of heart failure can lead to inadequate circulation and oxygen delivery, E. Shortness of breath - making it hard for her to maintain adequate oxygen levels, especially during activity, and F. Pneumonia - which affects gas exchange in the lungs due to the presence of fluid in alveoli and can worsen hypoxia. These factors contribute to the risk of developing hypoxia due to compromised lung function and oxygen transport.