Fundamentals of Nursing Q 318
Nurse Peter makes the assessment that which client has the greatest risk for a problem with the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues? A client who has:
A. Anemia
B. An infection
C. A fractured rib
D. A tumor of the medulla
Correct Answer: A. Anemia
Anemia is a condition of decreased red blood cells and decreased hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is how the oxygen molecules are transported to the tissues. Anemia is described as a reduction in the proportion of red blood cells. Anemia is not a diagnosis, but a presentation of an underlying condition. Whether or not a patient becomes symptomatic depends on the etiology of anemia, the acuity of onset, and the presence of other comorbidities, especially the presence of cardiovascular disease.
Option B: An infection would depend on its location. Infections can be caused by a variety of different organisms, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. The different ways that you can get an infection can be just as diverse as the organisms that cause them.
Option C: A fractured rib would interrupt the transport of oxygen from the atmosphere to the airways. Broken ribs are most commonly caused by direct impacts — such as those from motor vehicle accidents, falls, child abuse, or contact sports. Ribs also can be fractured by repetitive trauma from sports like golf and rowing or from severe and prolonged coughing.
Option D: Damage to the medulla would interfere with neural stimulation of the respiratory system. Tumors of the medulla cause swallowing problems and limb weakness.