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NCLEX · Physiological Adaptation

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

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Correct answer

Administer low-flow oxygen to maintain oxygen saturation around 88-92%, monitoring closely

  1. A Administer high-flow oxygen to achieve 100% saturation
  2. B Withhold all oxygen
  3. C Administer oxygen only at night
  4. D Administer low-flow oxygen to maintain oxygen saturation around 88-92%, monitoring closely

Why this is the answer

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.

Source: NCLEX Physiological — COPD Oxygen Therapy

Practice more questions

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About this topic: Physiological Adaptation

Physiological adaptation questions cover acute and chronic illness management, hemodynamics, medical emergencies, unexpected responses to therapy, and the priority nursing actions in each. This is one of 15 RN: Physiological Integrity questions on physiological adaptation, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our NCLEX exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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