When assessing the elderly patient, the nurse observes that the anterior to posterior width is the same as the transverse width of the chest. When documenting her findings, she describes this as:
Barrel Chest
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Anterior/Posterior Distortion
Lordosis
The Correct Answer is A
A) Barrel Chest: This term describes a condition where the anterior-posterior (AP) diameter of the chest is equal to the transverse diameter, giving the chest a rounded appearance. This finding is often observed in older adults or individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, and it indicates a potential increase in lung volume and air trapping, commonly seen in conditions like emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
B) Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: While barrel chest can be associated with COPD, it is not a direct descriptor of the chest shape. COPD encompasses various symptoms and physiological changes but does not specifically define the chest's physical appearance as barrel-shaped.
C) Anterior/Posterior Distortion: This term does not accurately describe the findings observed in the assessment. While it suggests some alteration in chest shape, it does not specifically refer to the characteristic appearance of barrel chest, which is a well-defined clinical term.
D) Lordosis: This refers to an excessive inward curve of the spine, particularly in the lumbar region. While it may affect posture and overall body alignment, it does not relate to the chest shape or measurements, making it an inappropriate choice in this context.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Talking in a loud voice: While this may indicate some level of distress or confusion, it does not necessarily signal a specific neurological deficit. Clients may raise their voice for various reasons unrelated to neurological issues.
B) Grimacing with movement: This could suggest discomfort or pain but is not an explicit indicator of neurological impairment. Grimacing can occur for many reasons, including musculoskeletal issues or emotional responses, and does not specifically necessitate a focused neurological assessment.
C) Asymmetry of the client's smile: This finding is significant and raises concerns about potential neurological issues, such as a stroke or Bell's palsy. Facial asymmetry may indicate weakness or dysfunction in the cranial nerves responsible for facial movement, warranting a more thorough neurological examination to assess for underlying causes.
D) Inability to follow directions: While this may point to confusion or cognitive impairment, it is a more general indicator and could result from various factors, including anxiety or lack of understanding. It does not specifically highlight a localized neurological deficit as clearly as facial asymmetry does.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This would indicate pitting edema: Tenting is not indicative of pitting edema, which is characterized by a depression left in the skin after pressure is applied. Tenting specifically refers to the skin's elasticity and is assessed by pinching the skin, observing how quickly it returns to its normal position.
B) This may indicate dehydration, but might not be reliable in an older adult: Tenting is often a sign of dehydration, as it reflects decreased skin elasticity. However, in elderly individuals, skin changes due to aging (like reduced elasticity and moisture) may make this assessment less reliable. Factors such as medications, health status, and overall skin integrity can also influence this observation, making it necessary to consider other indicators of hydration.
C) This means the client is well hydrated: Tenting does not indicate adequate hydration. In fact, it typically suggests the opposite, as well-hydrated skin should return to normal quickly after being pinched.
D) This indicates peripheral neuropathy: While peripheral neuropathy can affect skin and tissue integrity, tenting specifically relates to skin turgor and elasticity rather than nerve function. Tenting is not a direct indicator of neuropathy; other assessments would be needed to evaluate nerve health.