A hospital patient is complaining of increased shortness of breath. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of 24 on 3 L nasal canula. Which of the following actions should be done initially?

Explanation

•The nurse should first assess the patient's respiratory system to identify abnormalities and possible causes.

•The nurse may increase the oxygen flow rate if the patient is not maintaining an oxygen saturation above 90%.

•The physician should be notified after the nurse has obtained complete assessment data and attempted all available nursing and pharmacological interventions.

•Administer a bronchodilator if airway obstruction or narrowing is suspected.

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