A client with acute pulmonary edema is sitting upright, has pink frothy sputum, and an SpO2 of 84%. What is the nurse’s priority action?

Question

Accepted Answer

B. Apply oxygen and prepare for noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation as ordered — This is severe respiratory distress related to fluid in the lungs. Priorities are oxygenation/ventilation support (often CPAP/BiPAP) and rapid escalation while treating the underlying cause (diuretics/vasodilators per orders).

Answer

A. Place the client supine with legs elevated

Answer

C. Encourage oral fluids to thin secretions

Answer

D. Administer IM epinephrine