What nursing diagnosis should the nurse enter for a client with viral pneumonia on 4 L of oxygen?

The nursing diagnosis of ineffective breathing pattern related to inflammatory process is appropriate for a client with viral pneumonia on supplemental oxygen because this condition can significantly impact the client’s ability to breathe effectively. Viral pneumonia commonly leads to inflammation and edema in the lungs, which can cause difficulty in airflow and gas exchange. As a result, the client may exhibit altered respiratory patterns, such as shallow or labored breathing, an increased respiratory rate, or irregular breathing patterns.

In this context, oxygen therapy, provided at 4 L, indicates that the patient is having difficulty maintaining adequate oxygenation, further supporting the diagnosis of ineffective breathing pattern. This diagnosis emphasizes the need for the nurse to monitor the patient's respiratory status closely, implement interventions to promote effective breathing, and provide appropriate education to the client on how to manage their breathing while receiving oxygen.

The other options present alternate situations that might not align as closely with the specific condition of pneumonia impacting the client's breathing at this time.