A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has become extremely dyspneic. After determining that the client is in high-Fowler's position and is receiving oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 liters/minute, which immediate action should the nurse take?

Rationale: A. Obtain a stat arterial blood gas (ABG): ABGs provide valuable information about oxygenation and ventilation, but drawing them does not relieve acute dyspnea immediately and delays essential interventions. B. Encourage the client to use pursed lip breathing: This technique prolongs exhalation, prevents airway collapse, and promotes CO₂ elimination, providing immediate relief of dyspnea in COPD patients. C. Lower the bed to a semi-Fowler's position: Semi-Fowler’s reduces lung expansion compared to high-Fowler’s, which is already optimal for promoting ventilation in severe dyspnea. D. Increase the client's oxygen to 6 liters/minute: High-flow oxygen can reduce hypoxic drive in COPD patients, potentially worsening CO₂ retention and respiratory acidosis. It is not the safest immediate intervention.