When auscultating the lungs of an adult client, the nurse notes that low-pitched, soft breath sounds are heard over the lower lobes. How would the nurse interpret these findings?
Normal sounds auscultated up against the sternum
Bronchovesicular sounds that are normal over that location
Bronchial sounds that are normal over that location
Normal sounds auscultated over the trachea
Vesicular breath sounds that are normal in that location
The Correct Answer is E
A. Normal sounds against the sternum would not be low-pitched or soft; they would typically be more pronounced.
B. Bronchovesicular sounds are medium-pitched and are not expected in the lower lobes; they are usually heard in the central area.
C. Bronchial sounds are high-pitched and hollow, typically heard over the trachea, not in the lower lobes.
D. Normal sounds over the trachea would not be described as low-pitched or soft.
E. Vesicular breath sounds are soft, low-pitched, and normal over peripheral lung fields, including the lower lobes, making this the correct interpretation.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The closure of the pulmonic and mitral valves corresponds to heart sound S1, not S2.
B. The tricuspid and mitral valves close with S1.
C. Heart sound S2 represents the closure of the aortic and pulmonic valves, signaling the end of systole and the beginning of diastole.
D. The mitral valve closes with S1, not S2.
E. The pulmonic and tricuspid valves do not correspond with S2.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.