NCLEX Question of the Day

February 16, 2026

Physiological Adaptation QID 892

A nurse is caring for a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is receiving oxygen therapy at 2 liters per minute via nasal cannula. Which of the following findings would prompt the nurse to take immediate action?

A:
The client becomes drowsy and has a decreased level of consciousness.
B:
The client is using accessory muscles to breathe.
C:
The client's oxygen saturation level is at 92%.
D:
The client's respiratory rate is 16 breaths per minute.

Explanation

In clients with COPD, oxygen therapy must be carefully monitored because they are at risk for CO2 retention and oxygen-induced hypoventilation. A decreased level of consciousness and drowsiness can be signs of CO2 narcosis and require immediate intervention. The other options are either normal findings or expected compensatory mechanisms in a client with COPD.

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