California Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What are the early signs of hypoxia that clients requiring oxygen therapy should be monitored for?

1. Breathing comfortably only when sitting

2. Restlessness, dizziness, and disorientation

3. Cyanosis and increased pulse rate

4. Increased temperature and decreased respiratory rate

The correct answer is: Restlessness, dizziness, and disorientation

The early signs of hypoxia that clients requiring oxygen therapy should be monitored for include restlessness, dizziness, and disorientation. These symptoms arise because the body's tissues are not receiving enough oxygen, which affects mental function and can lead to agitation or an altered level of consciousness. Restlessness is a common initial response to low oxygen levels, as the body attempts to signal that something is wrong. Dizziness often occurs when the brain does not receive adequate oxygen, leading to lightheadedness. Disorientation can manifest as confusion or an inability to focus, indicating that the central nervous system is being affected. These signs serve as critical indicators that prompt healthcare providers to evaluate the client's oxygenation status and intervene if necessary, ensuring the patient receives the oxygen therapy required to restore normal levels. Other options may include symptoms associated with hypoxia but do not align as closely with the early manifestations or lack the urgency that accompanies restlessness, dizziness, and disorientation in the context of hypoxia.