A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is admitted with an acute exacerbation. The nurse notes the client is using accessory muscles to breathe, is restless, and has an oxygen saturation of 86% on room air. What is the priority nursing intervention?

The correct answer to the question "A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is admitted with an acute exacerbation. The nurse notes the client is using accessory muscles to breathe, is restless, and has an oxygen saturation of 86% on room air. What is the priority nursing intervention?" is Option D: Administer supplemental oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula.

The other options — A) Administer a prescribed bronchodilator, B) Obtain an arterial blood gas (ABG) sample, C) Place the client in a high-Fowler's position — are incorrect for this NCLEX-RN Exam Prep question. As explained above: The client's low oxygen saturation and signs of respiratory distress indicate hypoxemia. Administering supplemental oxygen is the most immediate intervention to improve oxygenation and reduce the wor…