A patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) experiences sudden, severe dyspnea, increased accessory muscle use, and reports feeling 'air hungry.' What is the nurse's initial intervention?

The correct answer to the question "A patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) experiences sudden, severe dyspnea, increased accessory muscle use, and reports feeling 'air hungry.' What is the nurse's initial intervention?" is Option C: Position the patient in high-Fowler's and apply supplemental oxygen..

The other options — A) Administer a prescribed oral diuretic., B) Prepare for endotracheal intubation., D) Auscultate for crackles and wheezes. — are incorrect for this NCLEX-RN Exam Prep question. As explained above: For acute dyspnea, the immediate priority is to improve oxygenation and ventilation. Positioning in high-Fowler's aids lung expansion, and supplemental oxygen can alleviate hypoxemia.