The client is a 49-year old who reports flu-like symptoms including fever and chest congestion for 4 days. He came to the emergency department (ED last night when he was having more difficulty breathing hat a history of one-half pack a day cigarette smoking for years. He has no significant medical or surgical history What 2 orders should the nurse complete first?

A. Not a priority compared to monitoring vital signs and ensuring adequate oxygenation. B: Increased oxygen flow is necessary to manage the client's respiratory distress and history of smoking. Correct Answer: 3 L, not 1 L as initially listed. C: Acetaminophen 350 mg PO q4h for temperature greater than 101 F (38.3°C): Important for fever management but not the first priority in acute respiratory distress. D: Helps maintain hydration but is secondary to respiratory support in this scenario. E: Not applicable as there is no immediate need for surgery or risk of aspiration currently indicated. F: Important for medication administration and fluid balance but follows after ensuring respiratory function. G: Useful for diagnosing the cause of respiratory symptoms but not a first-line action. H: Essential for continuously assessing the client's respiratory and cardiac status due to difficulty breathing.