Reduction of Risk PotentialQuestion 229 of 2368
A drowsy client who received opioids after surgery has slow, shallow breathing, but oxygen saturation is 96%. Which action should the nurse take first?
- Document the normal oxygen saturation and reassess at the next routine check
- Encourage oral fluids and let the client rest
- Give the next scheduled opioid dose to keep the client comfortable
- Assess airway, breathing and circulation and seek urgent help
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Correct answer: Assess airway, breathing and circulation and seek urgent help
Oxygen saturation may be normal with hypercapnia, so it should not decide the next step. The nurse assesses ABC and gets assistance.
Source: Nursing Fundamentals, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2024), Fluids and Electrolytes: Respiratory Acidosis. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Reduction of Risk Potential"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026