A nurse is assessing a client with pulmonary edema. Which physical examination finding is indicative of fluid accumulation in the lungs?
Decreased respiratory rate
Inspiratory crackles in the lung bases
Increased breath sounds
Diminished heart sounds
The Correct Answer is B
A) Incorrect. A decreased respiratory rate is not typically associated with pulmonary edema, which often leads to increased respiratory effort.
B) Correct. Inspiratory crackles in the lung bases are indicative of fluid accumulation in the alveoli and are a common physical finding in pulmonary edema.
C) Incorrect. Increased breath sounds are not typically associated with pulmonary edema; instead, crackles or wheezing may be heard.
D) Incorrect. Diminished heart sounds are not a characteristic finding in pulmonary edema.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. A persistent dry cough is not a typical symptom of acute pulmonary edema.
B) Incorrect. Productive cough with green sputum is more suggestive of a respiratory infection than acute pulmonary edema.
C) Correct. Sudden-onset severe shortness of breath, often described as "air hunger," is a hallmark symptom of acute pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Sharp, stabbing chest pain is not a primary symptom of acute pulmonary edema but may be present in some cases.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While a complete blood count (CBC) may provide some information, it is not the primary diagnostic test for pulmonary edema.
B) Incorrect. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may be used to evaluate cardiac function but does not directly assess pulmonary edema.
C) Correct. A chest X-ray is a key diagnostic tool for assessing the presence, severity, and underlying causes of pulmonary edema by visualizing lung and heart structures.
D) Incorrect. Urinalysis is not a primary diagnostic test for pulmonary edema; it is used to assess kidney function and screen for urinary tract infections.
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