A nurse is reviewing a client’s laboratory results. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

A. Inspiratory stridor - This is associated with upper airway obstruction and is not indicative of a pneumothorax.

B. Expiratory wheeze - Wheezing is commonly associated with lower airway conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), not pneumothorax.

C. Coarse crackles - Coarse crackles are typically heard in conditions such as pneumonia or pulmonary edema, not pneumothorax.

D. Absence of breath sounds - This is a key manifestation of a pneumothorax. The air in the pleural space can prevent the lung from fully expanding, leading to the absence of breath sounds on the affected side.

a. Blood glucose 150 mg/dL: While elevated blood glucose may be a concern, potassium levels are more critical in the context of acute gastroenteritis, which can lead to fluid and electrolyte

imbalances.

b. Urine specific gravity 1.035: Elevated urine specific gravity indicates concentrated urine and possible dehydration. However, the low potassium level takes precedence as it can lead to

serious cardiac complications.

c. Weight loss of 3% of total body weight: Weight loss is a concern, but the immediate risk of hypokalemia (low potassium) takes priority.

d. Potassium 2.5 mEq/L: This low potassium level is a critical finding that requires prompt attention, as it can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias and other serious complications.