A client with rheumatoid arthritis had abdominal surgery and has returned to the postoperative nursing unit. The client is unable to use the incentive spirometer correctly, demonstrating limited lung volume and fatiguing easily
What action by the nurse takes priority? a. Notify the physician immediately.
b. Have respiratory therapy re-instruct the client.
c. Assess for pain and medicate if necessary.
d. Let the client rest for a few hours.
A
Clients with rheumatoid arthritis can have cervical spine involvement resulting in subluxation. This may lead to decreased respiratory function and can be life threatening. This client was re-cently intubated for an operation and so is at higher risk for this problem. The nurse should notify the physician immediately and continue assessing the client.
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