A home health nurse is working with a client who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Which nursing diagnosis will take the highest priority for implementing client education?
A) Impaired Gas Exchange
B) Ineffective Breathing Pattern
C) Anxiety
D) Activity Intolerance
Answer: A
All of these nursing diagnoses are appropriate for the client who is experiencing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, but the priority for the nurse to address is impaired gas exchange. If the client's oxygen level is too low, or the carbon dioxide level is too high, the client's life may be threatened. This client will also experience activity intolerance, anxiety, and, at times, ineffective breathing patterns, but the priority diagnosis is Impaired Gas Exchange.
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