Final answer:
To reduce anxiety for a patient with COPD requiring oxygen therapy, the nurse should clearly communicate the necessity and benefits of the treatment, reassure the patient through regular monitoring with a pulse oximeter, and advise supportive measures such as hydrating and quitting smoking.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient with COPD requires supplemental oxygen via nasal cannula. To help reduce anxiety, the nurse should communicate with transparency about the treatment process and provide reassurance about the monitoring of oxygen levels.
Oxygen therapy is often prescribed for patients with COPD to ensure they are receiving enough oxygen. This is particularly important given the physiological changes that occur with COPD, such as a breakdown of alveolar walls, which can impede gas exchange. By using a nasal cannula, a comfortable and less intrusive method of delivering supplemental oxygen, the patient's breathing can be supported without creating additional anxiety. However, the presence of cords and the flow of oxygen can still cause nervousness.
Therefore, nurses play a critical role in educating patients about the need for oxygen therapy, the role of the pulse oximeter in measuring oxygen saturation levels, and the importance of maintaining oxygen levels within a therapeutic range to prevent complications such as hypoxemia. They should reassure the patient that the oxygen therapy is beneficial and that the healthcare team will regularly monitor vital signs to ensure their safety. Moreover, the nurse should encourage the patient to engage in activities that could help thin and remove mucus, such as staying hydrated and using a humidifier. Patients should also be encouraged to cease smoking, as it can exacerbate symptoms and slow recovery.
Engaging in clear communication, providing educational information on COPD management, and offering emotional support can help decrease a patient's anxiety related to receiving oxygen therapy.