A client suspected of having a pulmonary embolism complains of sudden chest pain and difficulty breathing. The nurse auscultates the client's chest and notes crackling sounds during inspiration. Which term describes these crackling sounds?

Wheezing

Rhonchi

Stridor

Rales (crackles)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A) Incorrect. Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs during expiration and is not associated with crackling sounds.

B) Incorrect. Rhonchi are continuous low-pitched sounds heard during both inspiration and expiration, usually due to airway obstruction.

C) Incorrect. Stridor is a high-pitched, crowing sound that occurs during inspiration and suggests upper airway obstruction.

D) Correct. Rales, also known as crackles, are crackling or popping sounds heard during inspiration and can be indicative of fluid or inflammation in the lungs, which can occur with pulmonary embolism.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) Correct. Prolonged immobility and a sedentary lifestyle are significant risk factors for pulmonary embolism.

B) Incorrect. Environmental pollutants and toxins are not primary causes of pulmonary embolism.

C) Incorrect. While healthy individuals can also develop pulmonary embolism, various factors contribute to its risk.

D) Incorrect. Lifestyle factors, as well as medical conditions, can contribute to the risk of pulmonary embolism.

A. "Chest pain that worsens with deep breaths." B. "Persistent cough with yellow-green mucus production." C. "Lightheadedness and dizziness upon standing." D. "Swelling and redness in the lower legs."

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) Correct. Chest pain that worsens with deep breaths (pleuritic chest pain) is a common and concerning symptom of pulmonary embolism.

B) Incorrect. Persistent cough with yellow-green mucus production is not a typical symptom of pulmonary embolism.

C) Incorrect. Lightheadedness and dizziness can be associated with pulmonary embolism but are less specific symptoms.

D) Incorrect. Swelling and redness in the lower legs are more indicative of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can sometimes lead to pulmonary embolism but are not direct symptoms of pulmonary embolism.

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A client suspected of having a pulmonary embolism complains of sudden chest pain and difficulty breathing. The nurse auscultates the client's chest and notes crackling sounds during inspiration. Which term describes these crackling sounds?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is educating a client about the risk factors for pulmonary embolism. Which statement made by the client indicates a correct understanding of the risk factors?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is educating a client about the signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism. Which symptom should the nurse emphasize as a common and concerning presentation of pulmonary embolism?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with suspected pulmonary embolism. The client's oxygen saturation drops significantly, and the nurse observes cyanosis of the lips and nail beds. Which term best describes this clinical finding?

A client asks a nurse about the process that leads to a pulmonary embolism. How should the nurse explain the pathophysiology of pulmonary embolism?

A nurse is caring for a client with suspected pulmonary embolism who is undergoing diagnostic testing. What diagnostic test is often used as an initial screening tool for pulmonary embolism?

A client presents to the emergency department with suspected pulmonary embolism. What blood test can help assess the likelihood of pulmonary embolism and its severity?

A nurse is assessing a client with suspected pulmonary embolism. The client reports feeling a sudden sense of impending doom and restlessness. Which term best describes this psychological symptom?

A client with a history of recurrent pulmonary embolism is prescribed long-term anticoagulant therapy. What medication is commonly used for long-term anticoagulation in this situation?

A nurse is explaining the risk factors for developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) to a client. The client asks about the connection between DVT and pulmonary embolism. What should the nurse tell the client?

A client with a history of pulmonary embolism asks the nurse about ways to prevent future episodes. What should the nurse include in the response?