A nurse is caring for a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). What is the appropriate oxygen administration goal?

For clients with COPD, administer LOW-FLOW oxygen to maintain SpO2 around 88-92% (target may vary, but lower than for other clients). NCLEX physiological/respiratory. RATIONALE: Some clients with chronic CO2 retention rely partly on a 'hypoxic drive' to breathe; giving HIGH concentrations of oxygen could (in some cases) reduce their respiratory drive — so titrate oxygen carefully to the target range rather than aiming for 100%. Start low (e.g., 1-2 L/min via nasal cannula) and monitor respiratory status, SpO2, and level of consciousness closely. NEVER withhold oxygen from a hypoxic client, but titrate carefully. Understanding cautious, low-flow oxygen titration for COPD is a commonly tested concept.