Question

a nurse should recognize that which of the following findings is an indication for oxygen therapy? respiratory rate 32/min pao₂ 90 mm hg paco₂ 40 mm hg spo₂ 90%

Explanation:

Normal respiratory rate is 12 - 20/min, normal PaO₂ is 80 - 100 mm Hg, normal PaCO₂ is 35 - 45 mm Hg, and normal SpO₂ is ≥95%. A respiratory rate of 32/min indicates tachypnea and may be an indication for oxygen therapy. PaO₂ of 90 mm Hg is within normal range, PaCO₂ of 40 mm Hg is normal, and SpO₂ of 90% is lower than normal but not as immediately indicative as tachypnea in this context.

Answer:

Respiratory rate 32/min