A nurse is caring for a client with pulmonary edema. Which finding is indicative of severe pulmonary edema and impaired gas exchange?
Pink, frothy sputum
Low-grade fever
Clear breath sounds throughout the lung fields
Absence of peripheral edema
The Correct Answer is A
A) Correct. Pink, frothy sputum, often described as "pink froth," is indicative of severe pulmonary edema with the presence of blood-tinged fluid in the alveoli.
B) Incorrect. A low-grade fever is not a typical sign of pulmonary edema and may indicate another underlying condition.
C) Incorrect. Clear breath sounds throughout the lung fields are not indicative of severe pulmonary edema, which often presents with crackles.
D) Incorrect. The absence of peripheral edema does not necessarily reflect the severity of pulmonary edema; it may be related to factors other than heart failure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct. Pink, frothy sputum, often described as "pink froth," is indicative of severe pulmonary edema with the presence of blood-tinged fluid in the alveoli.
B) Incorrect. A low-grade fever is not a typical sign of pulmonary edema and may indicate another underlying condition.
C) Incorrect. Clear breath sounds throughout the lung fields are not indicative of severe pulmonary edema, which often presents with crackles.
D) Incorrect. The absence of peripheral edema does not necessarily reflect the severity of pulmonary edema; it may be related to factors other than heart failure.
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