A middle-aged client reports, "I can't get my breath when I walk." Upon assessment, the nurse notes that the patient has a barrel chest and is using his accessory muscles to breathe. The patient's respiratory rate is 28/min. On palpation, there is limited expansion and decreased tactile fremitus. Percussion yields hyperresonant sounds. On auscultation, prolonged expiration, scattered wheezes, and rhonchi are present. Which disorder would the nurse suspect?

Pneumonia.

Atelectasis.

Pleural effusion.

Emphysema.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A rationale:

Pneumonia is not likely to be the correct answer. Pneumonia is often characterized by productive cough, fever, chest pain, and increased tactile fremitus due to consolidation of lung tissue. The presence of barrel chest, decreased tactile fremitus, and hyperresonant percussion sounds is not consistent with pneumonia.

Choice B rationale:

Atelectasis is not the most likely option. Atelectasis refers to collapsed or partially collapsed lung tissue, which can lead to decreased breath sounds, dullness to percussion, and decreased tactile fremitus. The symptoms mentioned in the scenario, such as prolonged expiration, wheezes, and barrel chest, are not indicative of atelectasis.

Choice C rationale:

Pleural effusion is not the most suitable choice. Pleural effusion usually presents with decreased breath sounds, dullness to percussion, and decreased tactile fremitus over the affected area due to fluid accumulation in the pleural space. The hyperresonant percussion sounds and the presence of wheezes and rhonchi do not align with pleural effusion.

Choice D rationale:

Emphysema is the most likely disorder based on the given symptoms. Barrel chest (increased anterior-posterior chest diameter), limited lung expansion, decreased tactile fremitus, hyperresonant percussion sounds, prolonged expiration, wheezes, and rhonchi are characteristic findings of emphysema. This condition involves damage to the alveoli and their supporting structures, leading to air trapping, reduced lung elasticity, and obstructed airflow. The patient's use of accessory muscles to breathe further suggests a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) like emphysema.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is a component of blood used to replace clotting factors and is typically indicated for specific medical conditions like bleeding disorders or massive transfusions. In this case, the client requires red blood cells due to significant blood loss, so FFP alone is not the appropriate choice.

Choice B rationale:

Initiating an immediate blood transfusion without the client's consent is not ethically appropriate, especially considering the client's religious beliefs as a Jehovah's Witness. Respecting the client's autonomy and religious convictions is important.

Choice C rationale:

Asking the client to decide about the blood transfusion is the correct course of action. Since the client is able to respond to questions appropriately, they should be informed about their condition, the need for a blood transfusion, and the potential risks and benefits. This respects the client's autonomy while ensuring they have the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Choice D rationale:

Notifying the client's family immediately is not the best initial action. While involving the family is important, the client's own decision about the blood transfusion should take precedence, especially when they are conscious and able to make decisions for themselves.

A. "Do not adjust the oxygen flow rate.” B. "Check your oxygen equipment once each week.” C. "Store unused oxygen tanks horizontally.” D. "Use wool blankets on your bed.”

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client not to adjust the oxygen flow rate is crucial to ensure the appropriate amount of oxygen is delivered. Oxygen flow rates are prescribed by a healthcare provider based on the client's needs, and altering the flow rate without medical guidance can lead to inadequate oxygen delivery or oxygen toxicity.

Choice B rationale:

Weekly equipment checks are important, but this choice is not the most critical instruction. Clients should be instructed to check their oxygen equipment daily for proper functioning and to address any issues promptly. Waiting a whole week could lead to potential problems going unnoticed.

Choice C rationale:

Storing unused oxygen tanks horizontally is incorrect. Oxygen tanks should be stored upright to prevent leaks and ensure proper functioning. Storing them horizontally can cause valve damage and leakage, which could lead to hazards.

Choice D rationale:

Using wool blankets on the bed is not a suitable instruction for a client using oxygen therapy. Wool blankets can generate static electricity, which might pose a fire hazard in the presence of oxygen-enriched environments.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A Medical-Surgical nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client who has a new prescription for home oxygen. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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