Final answer:
The partial rebreather mask is functioning properly if the oxygen reservoir bag does not deflate completely during inspiration and the adult client has a respiratory rate of 14 breaths per minute. This indicates adequate alveolar ventilation and falls within the normal respiratory rate. The nurse should continue monitoring the client's oxygenation status and respiratory function.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing an adult client with a partial rebreather mask, the observation that the oxygen reservoir bag does not deflate completely during inspiration and that the client has a respiratory rate of 14 breaths per minute indicates the mask is functioning correctly. The purpose of the partial rebreather mask is to deliver a higher oxygen concentration than is possible with a non-rebreather mask, while allowing the client to re-inhale some of the expired gas from the reservoir bag, which contains a high concentration of oxygen. The bag should not deflate completely as this allows for mixing of inhaled room air with oxygen for better delivery. The respiratory rate of 14 breaths per minute falls within the normal adult respiratory rate range of 12-15 breaths per minute, suggesting that the client's alveolar ventilation is adequate. Consequently, no immediate action may be necessary, but the nurse should continue to monitor the client's oxygenation status and respiratory function to ensure that they remain stable. It is important to assure that the reservoir bag is partially inflated at the end of each breath to ensure that the correct mixture of oxygen is provided.