The nurse attaches a pulse oximeter to a client’s finger and obtains an oxygen saturation reading of 91%. Which assessment finding most likely contributes to this reading?
Capillary refill time is 2 seconds.
2+ edema of fingers and hands.
Radial pulse volume is 3+.
Blood pressure is 142/88 mm Hg.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Capillary refill time is 2 seconds. A capillary refill time of 2 seconds is within normal limits and is unlikely to affect the accuracy of the pulse oximetry reading.
Choice B rationale
2+ edema of fingers and hands. Edema can interfere with the accuracy of pulse oximetry readings by affecting the perfusion of the area where the sensor is placed. This can lead to falsely low oxygen saturation readings.
Choice C rationale
Radial pulse volume is 3+. A strong radial pulse indicates good peripheral perfusion, which should not negatively impact the accuracy of the pulse oximetry reading.
Choice D rationale
Blood pressure is 142/88 mm Hg. While elevated blood pressure can have various effects on the body, it is not likely to directly affect the accuracy of a pulse oximetry reading.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Advising the UAP to wear a standard face mask to obtain vital signs and then get fitted for a filter mask before providing personal care is not appropriate. The UAP should be properly equipped with the correct protective gear before any contact with the client.
Choice B rationale
Instructing the UAP that a standard face mask is sufficient to provide care for the assigned client is incorrect. Bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, and a standard face mask is sufficient for this type of precaution, not a particulate filter mask.
Choice C rationale
Sending the UAP to be fitted for a particulate filter mask immediately so the UAP can provide care to this client is unnecessary because bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, which only necessitate a standard surgical mask, not a particulate filter mask like an N953.
Choice D rationale
Before changing assignments, determining which staff members have fitted particulate filter masks is prudent but not necessary for caring for a client with bacterial meningitis under droplet precautions. The focus should be on ensuring the UAP understands that a standard mask is sufficient.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Verifying the placement of the pulse oximeter is the first step to ensure the accuracy of the oxygen saturation reading. An incorrect placement can lead to inaccurate readings, and addressing this issue can help determine if further interventions are needed.
Choice B rationale
Increasing the oxygen to 3 L/minute may be necessary if the oxygen saturation remains low after verifying the pulse oximeter placement. However, this should be done after ensuring the accuracy of the initial reading.
Choice C rationale
Switching to a non-rebreather mask is not the immediate action to take. Non-rebreather masks deliver a high concentration of oxygen, typically reserved for severe hypoxia. The patient’s oxygen saturation is low, but not critically low.
Choice D rationale
Removing the nasal cannula is not appropriate as it would further decrease the oxygen supply to the patient. The goal is to improve oxygenation, not reduce it.