A nurse is caring for four clients with chronic obstructive…
A nurse is caring for four clients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Based on the following assessment data, which client should the nurse assess first? Client A: Respiratory rate 28/min, using accessory muscles Oxygen saturation 88% on 2 L nasal cannula Reports increased shortness of breath and productive cough with green sputum Client B: Respiratory rate 22/min Oxygen saturation 92% on room air Complains of fatigue and mild ankle edema Client C: Respiratory rate 20/min Oxygen saturation 94% on 1 L nasal cannula Reports mild wheezing, scheduled for discharge today Client D: Respiratory rate 18/min Oxygen saturation 96% on room air Reports occasional cough and no increased sputum