When performing a respiratory assessment on a patient, the nurse notices a costal vertebral angle (CVA) of approximately 160 degrees. How would finding?
a sign of congestive heart failure
a normal finding in a healthy adult.
seen in patients with kyphosis.
indicative of a pneumothorax.
an expected finding in a patient with a barrel chest.
The Correct Answer is C
A. CVA tenderness is associated with renal issues, not directly with congestive heart failure.
B. A CVA angle of 160 degrees is abnormal; a normal angle is closer to 90 degrees, indicating potential issues.
C. A greater CVA angle can be observed in patients with kyphosis, where the spine curves excessively, affecting rib positioning.
D. A pneumothorax typically results in reduced breath sounds and tracheal deviation, not specifically linked to CVA angle changes.
E. A barrel chest results in an increased AP diameter, not typically associated with CVA angle changes.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Suctioning the tracheostomy is the priority action to clear secretions, which is likely the cause of the noisy, bubbly respirations. This can help the client breathe more easily.
B. Changing the tracheostomy tube is only necessary if the tube is obstructed or malfunctioning, and suctioning is generally the first step.
C. Notifying the healthcare provider may be needed if suctioning is ineffective or if complications persist, but immediate intervention is required.
D. Changing the tracheostomy dressing does not address the respiratory noise or potential secretion buildup.
E. A head-to-toe assessment may be needed, but the immediate concern is clearing the airway obstruction.