The nurse obtains information when performing a focused assessment of a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who has been admitted with increasing dyspnea (shortness of breath) over the last 3 days. Which finding is most important to report to the health care provider?
Decreased lung sounds on expiration
Respirations are 40 breaths/minute
Anterior-posterior diameter ratio is 1:1
Hyperresonance is noted to percussion
Decreased tactile fremitus is present
The Correct Answer is B
A. Decreased lung sounds on expiration are common in COPD patients due to airway obstruction but do not necessarily indicate an acute issue.
B. Respirations are 40 breaths/minute is a critical finding, as this rapid respiratory rate suggests significant respiratory distress or worsening hypoxemia, which needs immediate intervention to prevent further complications.
C. An anterior-posterior diameter ratio of 1:1 (barrel chest) is a common finding in advanced COPD but does not indicate acute worsening.
D. Hyperresonance to percussion is typical in patients with COPD due to air trapping and does not suggest an immediate emergency.
E. Decreased tactile fremitus may occur in COPD due to increased air trapping but is not an urgent finding requiring immediate reporting.
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Correct Answer is ["A","C"]
Explanation
A. Pulmonic valve closure is best heard at the base of the heart, near the second intercostal space at the left sternal border.
B. Tricuspid valve sounds are best heard at the lower left sternal border, near the apex rather than the base of the heart.
C. Aortic valve closure is also best heard at the base of the heart, near the second intercostal space on the right sternal border.
D. Mitral valve sounds are heard best at the apex of the heart, near the fifth intercostal space in the midclavicular line, not the base.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
A. An S3 is often associated with a stiff or poorly compliant ventricle.
B. An S3 heart sound can be an indication of congestive heart failure in adults, as it reflects increased fluid volume and pressure in the ventricles.
C. S3 is heard just after S2, not S1.
D. The S3 heart sound is not always pathologic. It is often benign in children, adolescents, and young adults, where it may occur due to a rapid filling phase of the ventricles.
E. In adolescents and younger individuals, an S3 heart sound is usually considered a normal finding.