A patient with severe pneumonia has a respiratory rate of 34 per minute, oxygen saturation of 82% and increasing confusion. Which nursing action has the highest priority?
Correct answer: B. Apply prescribed oxygen and summon urgent assistance
- A. Offer oral fluids to thin respiratory secretions
- B. Apply prescribed oxygen and summon urgent assistance
- C. Encourage coughing and reassess after thirty minutes
- D. Administer an oral antipyretic for the fever
Explanation
Severe hypoxaemia and altered mental status show life-threatening breathing failure. Oxygen and urgent assistance address breathing immediately, while oral fluids, delayed reassessment and fever treatment do not correct the immediate threat.
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About Critical Care and Emergency Nursing
Covers rapid assessment and stabilisation of patients with airway obstruction, respiratory failure, shock, cardiac arrest, sepsis, poisoning and major electrolyte disturbances. It includes triage, the ABCDE approach, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, ventilator and monitor care, emergency medicines and distinguishing life-threatening deterioration from stable illness.
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50 free Critical Care and Emergency Nursing MCQs from Medical Surgical Nursing, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
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