A client experiencing an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) becomes increasingly lethargic. Recent arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis reveals a pH of 7.25, PaCO2 of 72 mm Hg, HCO3 of 28 mEq/L, and PaO2 of 58 mm Hg. To reduce the risk of impending respiratory failure, which intervention should the nurse implement first?
- Prepare the equipment for noninvasive positive pressure ventilation or intubation.Cevap
- BIncrease the supplemental oxygen to 15 liters per minute via a non-rebreather mask.
- CPosition the client flat in bed to optimize cerebral perfusion and improve arousal.
- DPrioritize conducting a comprehensive neurological assessment to investigate the lethargy.
Cevap
The correct action is to prepare the equipment for noninvasive positive pressure ventilation or intubation.
The client is exhibiting clear signs of acute respiratory failure and CO2 narcosis (lethargy paired with severe respiratory acidosis: pH 7.25 and PaCO2 72 mm Hg). The absolute priority action to reduce the risk of respiratory arrest and death is to assist with ventilation. This actively blows off excess carbon dioxide and improves oxygenation, which is achieved through noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (such as BiPAP) or mechanical intubation.
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Anahtar Kavram
Identifying early indicators of respiratory failure and prioritizing airway and breathing interventions over secondary assessments.