In which situation should a nurse consider immediate action regarding a patient at risk for atelectasis?

Immediate action is warranted when hypoxia is detected in a patient at risk for atelectasis because hypoxia can indicate that the lungs are not adequately oxygenating the blood due to collapsed or poorly ventilated areas. Atelectasis, which is the partial or complete collapse of the lung or lobe, can lead to serious complications if not addressed quickly. Prompt intervention is necessary to prevent further deterioration of the patient’s respiratory status and to facilitate appropriate oxygenation and ventilation.

Monitoring for signs of hypoxia is crucial, as untreated atelectasis can exacerbate respiratory distress and lead to additional complications such as pneumonia. The nurse must act swiftly to implement interventions like encouraging deep breathing, mobilization, or using incentive spirometry to re-expand the collapsed alveoli and improve overall lung function.

In contrast, documenting intake and output, preparing medication schedules, and administering IV fluids are important tasks in nursing care but do not require the immediate, urgent response that detecting hypoxia entails. Addressing respiratory compromise takes precedence over these other activities, highlighting the critical need for timely assessment and intervention in perioperative nursing.