An older adult client with emphysema who continues to smoke cigarettes returns to the medical unit after a physical therapy session, and is short of breath. The nurse notes that the client is lying supine with the head of the bed elevated to 45 degrees. Oxygen is flowing via nasal cannula at 3L/minute. The client's pulse oximetry is 88%, respiratory rate is 14 breaths/minute, and vital signs are stable. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

Rationale: A. Assess lung sounds for signs of infection: While lung assessment is important, there's no indication of fever or increased sputum to suggest infection. It does not immediately relieve the client's current dyspnea. B. Encourage client to initiate a smoking cessation program: Smoking cessation is vital but is a long-term intervention and not appropriate as the first action for acute shortness of breath following exertion. C. Administer a prescribed albuterol inhaler: Albuterol acts as a bronchodilator and can relieve acute shortness of breath due to bronchospasm or exertional dyspnea in clients with emphysema. This is the most immediate and appropriate action. D. Notify the healthcare provider of the low pulse oximetry value: Although communication with the provider may be needed if symptoms persist, the pulse ox of 88% can be common in COPD clients. Immediate symptom relief with the prescribed bronchodilator is the priority.