A nurse is assessing a client's vital signs and notes a respiratory rate of 30 breaths/minute. What data should the nurse plan to obtain next?

Choice A reason: Cultural health beliefs are important for holistic care but do not provide immediate information about oxygenation status. They are not the priority when a client is tachypneic. Choice B reason: Color of sputum may provide information about infection or inflammation but does not directly assess oxygenation. It is secondary to evaluating the client’s respiratory status. Choice C reason: History of cigarette smoking is relevant for long-term risk assessment but does not provide immediate data about the client’s current oxygenation status. Choice D reason: Pulse oximeter reading is the most appropriate next step. A respiratory rate of 30 indicates tachypnea, which may compromise oxygenation. Pulse oximetry provides immediate, objective data about oxygen saturation, helping the nurse determine if the client is hypoxemic and requires intervention.