b) O₂ carrying capacity
To show positive outcomes in gas exchange intervention, the nurse needs to measure the O₂ carrying capacity. This refers to the ability of the respiratory system to effectively transport oxygen to the body's tissues. By assessing the O₂ carrying capacity, the nurse can determine if the intervention has improved the patient's ability to oxygenate their blood and meet the oxygen demands of the body.
While attributes such as age-appropriate mobility, adequate functioning of the respiratory system, and respiratory rate normal for age are important factors in assessing overall respiratory health, they do not directly measure the effectiveness of gas exchange intervention. The O₂ carrying capacity specifically focuses on the outcome of gas exchange and therefore is the most relevant measure for evaluating the effectiveness of the intervention.