Reference no: EM133857278
Assignment:
K.L., 70 yr old, female.
Diagnosis of COPD. Has just returned to your unit, following surgery for excision of non-malignant intestinal polyp.
Incision: Midline abdominal, transverse incision; secured with sutures and covered with a sterile dressing.
Peripheral IV to right arm: D5 1/2 NS, running at 75 mL/hr.
History: Long-term use of steroids for COPD.
NG Tube in her right naris, clamped at this time.
Primary charge nurse asks you to place patient on oxygen; and when you try to place the nasal cannular in patient's naris; you think it is uncomfortable & a little odd to perform this. Therefore, for comfort, you decide to place a simple oxygen mask on your patient instead.
Her vital signs are as follows: T 99.0 F, axillary; P 76; BP 110/72; RR 24; O2 sat 92%.
Physician's Orders:
NG tube clamped
Incentive Spirometry PRN
Oxygen 2L/min via nasal cannula
IV fluid: D5 1/2 NS @ 75 mL/hr
Morphine Sulfate 2-4 mg IV q4h PRN for: Pain
QUESTIONS:
1. Describe the difference between oxygen delivered by nasal cannula vs simple oxygen mask.
2. Considering her COPD, what complications can occur, and what nursing interventions could decrease these complications?
3. What are 3 factors, placing this patient at risk for skin breakdown; and provide 3 nursing interventions to prevent skin breakdown in this patient.
4. Describe 2 comfort measures you can provide for your patient.
5. What are 3 assessments you will perform on this patient; And what is the rationale for your assessments.