A client arrives to the emergency department with exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with SpO₂ of 78%, hypercapnia, and respiratory rate of 32 per minute. Which action by the nurse is considered priority? A. Apply a partial re-breather mask with Fio₂ of 60-80% and call for a blood gas sample. B. Apply Venturi mask at 24% oxygen setting or nasal canula at 2 L/mi pending health provider determination. C. Begin an aminophylline drip then prepare a tracheotomy tray and alert health provider. D. Educate on activity tolerance to minimize further episodes.
