Understanding the respiratory system matters for nurses. In medical-surgical settings, patients show complex lung issues. Nurses use clear tests and labs to help them act fast. This guide lists key tests that nurses need to know to care for patients with breathing problems.
Arterial Blood Gases (ABGs)
ABGs check a patient’s lung activity. They work well in critical care and with those who have lung disorders. ABGs show the balance of acid and base and how well blood gets oxygen.
Key parts in ABGs are:
• pH (7.35 – 7.45): The pH tells us the acid–base balance. Values outside this range show acidosis or alkalosis.
• PaCO2 (35 – 45 mmHg): This measure shows carbon dioxide levels and links directly to breathing.
• HCO3 (Bicarbonate, 22 – 26 mEq/L): This tells us about the body’s metabolic support of the acid–base balance.
• PaO2 (80 – 100 mmHg): This shows how well oxygen moves into the blood.
• SaO2 (95 – 100%): This value shows the percentage of blood that holds oxygen.
Nurses watch these numbers. They note small shifts to see signs of distress and work with the team on treatment.
Pulse Oximetry (SpO2)
Pulse oximetry measures oxygen in the blood without any cuts. A normal SpO2 comes out between 95% and 100%. For patients with COPD, a stable level in the low 90s can be normal because of their history.
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs)
PFTs help show how much air the lungs hold and the air flow rates. These tests help find diseases like asthma and COPD. They also show if the lungs are blocked or if their motion is restricted.
Bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy uses a thin tube to see inside the airways. It helps doctors diagnose and sometimes treat lung issues. Nurses play a key role before and after this test.
• Pre-Procedure: The nurse ensures the patient does not eat or drink for 4 to 8 hours. Sedative drugs are given as the doctor orders.
• Post-Procedure: The nurse checks that the patient’s gag reflex returns before giving any food or drink. A sore throat and coughing up blood-tinged mucus are expected.
• Complication Monitoring: The nurse stays alert for a collapsed lung or other problems.
Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis uses a needle to remove fluid or air from the pleural space. Nursing tasks before, during, and after help keep the patient safe and comfortable.
• Pre-Procedure Positioning: The nurse gets the patient to sit upright. The patient’s arms rest on a bedside table or pillows. This position gives clear access to the back chest and keeps the patient still.
• During Procedure: The patient must stay very still and avoid talking or coughing. This helps the nurse prevent injuries.
• Post-Procedure Care: The nurse checks for a collapsed lung, bleeding, or low blood pressure. A chest X-ray may follow if needed. Deep breaths are encouraged to help the lungs expand.
Quick Quiz Recap
1. Is an SpO2 of 90% expected in a COPD patient?
Answer: True. This is often a stable level for COPD patients.
2. What must be checked before the patient can eat or drink after a bronchoscopy?
Answer: The return of the gag reflex to prevent aspiration.
3. How should a patient be positioned for thoracentesis?
Answer: Upright, with arms supported on a bedside table or pillows.
Conclusion
Nurses must master respiratory tests to keep patients safe. Reading ABGs, caring during bronchoscopy, and managing thoracentesis all help improve treatment. Practice and review build these important skills. For extra learning, nurses can use more resources and practice quizzes on these key topics.
This guide uses trusted nursing education resources to support safe respiratory care practice.
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