A nurse is caring for a client following a bronchoscopy with moderate sedation. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A rationale Assessing the client’s gag reflex before offering oral intake is essential to prevent aspiration. The gag reflex may be diminished after moderate sedation and the use of local anesthetics during bronchoscopy. Choice B rationale Listening to the client’s breath sounds is important to detect any abnormalities, such as wheezing, crackles, or decreased breath sounds, which could indicate complications like bronchospasm or pneumothorax. Choice C rationale Monitoring the client’s oxygen saturation is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation and detect any signs of respiratory distress or hypoxemia following the procedure. Choice D rationale Monitoring the client for manifestations of bleeding is necessary because bronchoscopy can cause trauma to the airways, leading to bleeding. Signs of bleeding may include hemoptysis or a drop in hemoglobin levels. Choice E rationale Assessing the client’s puncture site is not applicable in this context, as bronchoscopy does not involve a puncture site. This option is incorrect. Choice F rationale Observing the client for manifestations of a pneumothorax is important because bronchoscopy can occasionally cause a pneumothorax, especially if a biopsy is performed. Signs of pneumothorax include sudden chest pain, dyspnea, and decreased breath sounds on the affected side.