The nurse is on the medical/surgical floor is getting a new admission. The client is being admitted for shortness of breath (dyspnea). Which assessment finding would be of concern?
Respiratory rate of 20
Vesicular sounds heard in the lung periphery
Capillary refill time of 5 seconds
AP diameter of 1:2
Equal chest expansion
The Correct Answer is C
A. A respiratory rate of 20 is within the normal range for adults (12-20 breaths per minute), especially in someone experiencing dyspnea.
B. Vesicular sounds in the lung periphery are normal findings, particularly in healthy lung areas.
C. A capillary refill time of 5 seconds indicates poor perfusion and could suggest systemic issues or hypoxia, which is concerning in a patient with dyspnea.
D. An anteroposterior (AP) diameter of 1:2 is normal; a barrel chest might indicate chronic respiratory conditions but is not an immediate concern in this context.
E. Equal chest expansion is a normal finding and indicates effective respiratory mechanics.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. S1 and S2 heard with the diaphragm of the stethoscope is a normal finding, as these are the expected heart sounds.
B. A blowing sound heard over the mitral area with the bell of the stethoscope suggests a possible murmur, which could indicate valvular abnormalities and is considered abnormal.
C. Apical pulse palpated at the 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line is normal and expected in adults.
D. Absence of sound over carotid arteries with the bell of the stethoscope indicates no bruits and is considered normal.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Supine is not recommended, as it can make breathing more difficult by limiting chest expansion.
B. Trendelenberg is not suitable for someone with breathing difficulties, as this position can worsen dyspnea.
C. High-Fowler is the best position for an asthma patient experiencing shortness of breath as it promotes lung expansion and allows for maximum chest wall movement.
D. Semi-Fowler may help but is less effective than High-Fowler in cases of acute respiratory distress.
E. Left-lateral does not optimize chest expansion and is not typically recommended for respiratory distress.