07/06/2026
A patient with increased intracranial pressure following a traumatic brain injury is receiving IV mannitol. Four hours later, the client develops crackles in both lung bases, increasing respiratory distress, and oxygen saturation of 88% despite supplemental oxygen. Which nursing action should occur first?
A. Discontinue the infusion and assess the client for pulmonary edema
B. Encourage deep breathing exercises while continuing prescribed therapy
C. Increase the infusion rate to improve renal clearance and urine production
D. Reposition the client flat in bed to improve cerebral tissue perfusion
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