A client with pneumonia has a respiratory rate of 32 breaths/min. What action should the nurse take first?

In the case of a client with pneumonia exhibiting a respiratory rate of 32 breaths per minute, the most immediate concern is the client's respiratory status. A respiratory rate that is significantly elevated, such as 32 breaths per minute, indicates increased work of breathing and potential hypoxia. The priority action for the nurse in this situation is to ensure adequate oxygenation.

Applying oxygen is essential as it helps to maintain adequate oxygen levels in the blood, particularly in patients with pneumonia who may be experiencing impaired gas exchange due to the infection in the lungs. By administering oxygen, the nurse can alleviate symptoms of respiratory distress, improve oxygen saturation levels, and help stabilize the patient.

While administering antibiotics and encouraging bed rest are important components of pneumonia treatment and overall patient care, they are not immediate actions. Antibiotics take time to exert their effect, and encouraging bed rest does not directly address the urgent need for improved respiratory function. Assessing nutritional intake, while relevant for overall recovery, is not a priority compared to addressing potential hypoxia in a patient with elevated respiratory distress. Therefore, the correct initial action is to apply oxygen.