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
Explanation
A. A heave (or lift) often indicates ventricular hypertrophy or enlargement, suggesting increased workload on the heart.
B. Turbulent blood flow may lead to murmurs but is not specifically associated with a heave.
C. A persistently slow heartbeat is referred to as bradycardia and does not correlate with a heave.
D. An extreme pulse deficit relates to discrepancies between heartbeats and palpable pulses but is not linked to a heave.
E. Coronary artery blockage would not directly produce a heave; it typically leads to ischemic changes.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Curved prongs fitting the nasal passages correctly is appropriate practice for comfort and effective delivery.
B. Padding pressure areas on the skin is a best practice to prevent skin breakdown and is indicative of proper care.
C. An oxygen flow rate of 10 L/min is excessively high for a nasal cannula, which typically accommodates 1-6 L/min; this indicates a need for further education on proper flow rates.
D. Posting clear no smoking and no open flame signs is essential for safety in oxygen therapy, reflecting good practice.
E. Proper adjustment of cannula tubing under the neck is necessary to ensure a secure fit without causing discomfort.