Which finding would be of MOST concern when the nurse assesses a client with emphysema (COPD)?
barrel chest
respiratory rate of 22 per minute
Oral cyanosis
decreased lung sounds on expiration
Pursed-lip expiration
The Correct Answer is C
A. A barrel chest is a common finding in patients with emphysema due to lung hyperinflation but is not immediately life-threatening.
B. A respiratory rate of 22 per minute indicates mild tachypnea, which can be expected in patients with COPD, but is not the most alarming sign.
C. Oral cyanosis is a concerning sign that indicates inadequate oxygenation and can suggest severe respiratory distress or failure, necessitating immediate intervention.
D. Decreased lung sounds on expiration can occur in emphysema but is not as critical as the presence of cyanosis.
E. Pursed-lip expiration is a compensatory mechanism used by patients with COPD to improve breathing efficiency; it is generally a positive adaptive strategy.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While posterior to anterior comparisons are used, they do not encompass the entire technique for auscultation.
B. Side-to-side comparison is the correct method as it allows for immediate assessment of differences between lung fields and helps to identify abnormal sounds effectively.
C. Interspace-by-interspace comparison is not a commonly recognized term for this method and can lead to confusion in technique.
D. Proximal to distal comparison is not specific to lung auscultation and does not effectively apply to lung assessment.
E. Top-to-bottom comparison may miss abnormalities in a specific region of the lungs; side-to-side is preferred.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. S1 and S2 heard with the diaphragm of the stethoscope is a normal finding, as these are the expected heart sounds.
B. A blowing sound heard over the mitral area with the bell of the stethoscope suggests a possible murmur, which could indicate valvular abnormalities and is considered abnormal.
C. Apical pulse palpated at the 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line is normal and expected in adults.
D. Absence of sound over carotid arteries with the bell of the stethoscope indicates no bruits and is considered normal.