Client: Linda Perez, 72, admitted with worsening shortness o…

Questions

Client: Lindа Perez, 72, аdmitted with wоrsening shоrtness оf breаth from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). During morning rounds, the nurse notes: Sitting upright, leaning forward, appears anxious Respirations 28/min, labored SpO₂ 88% on 2 L nasal cannula Productive cough with thick sputum Skin pale with bluish lips Breakfast tray untouched; states she’s “too tired to eat” Question: Which nursing action should the nurse first prioritize?