PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

What is the most appropriate first action for a nurse caring for a client with an oxygen saturation of 90% and shortness of breath?

1. Prepare for intubation of the client.

2. Administer opioid medication.

3. Administer oxygen via nasal cannula.

4. Place the client in low-Fowler's position.

The correct answer is: Administer oxygen via nasal cannula.

Administering oxygen via nasal cannula is the most appropriate first action for a client presenting with an oxygen saturation of 90% and shortness of breath. Patients with low oxygen saturation levels indicate potential hypoxia, and supplemental oxygen is a direct intervention that can help improve their oxygenation status. By providing oxygen, the nurse can quickly address the immediate need for increased oxygen levels in the blood, which is crucial for alleviating symptoms of respiratory distress. In this scenario, the priority is to ensure adequate oxygen delivery to the patient, which can significantly alleviate shortness of breath and improve overall respiratory function. While placing the client in low-Fowler's position and other interventions could be beneficial, they do not directly address the low oxygen saturation as promptly as oxygen administration would.