A nurse on a Medical-Surgical unit is performing an assessment on a client who has COPD with emphysema. The client reports that he has a frequent wet cough and is occasionally short-of-breath. The nurse should anticipate which of the following assessment findings for this client?
Petechiae on the chest.
Increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest.
Oxygen saturation level 96%.
Respiratory alkalosis.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B. Increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest.
Choice A rationale:
Petechiae on the chest (Choice A) are tiny red or purple spots that appear on the skin due to small blood vessel breakage. They are not typically associated with COPD and emphysema. Petechiae are more often related to conditions like thrombocytopenia or certain infections, where blood clotting is impaired.
Choice B rationale:
Increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest, often referred to as "barrel chest," is a characteristic finding in clients with COPD and emphysema. This occurs due to the hyperinflation of the lungs and the loss of elasticity in the lung tissues, which causes the chest to become rounded and the ribs to be positioned more horizontally.
Choice C rationale:
An oxygen saturation level of 96% (Choice C) is within the normal range for oxygen saturation. However, while it's important for clients with COPD to maintain adequate oxygen levels, this value doesn't specifically correlate with the client's symptoms of a wet cough and occasional shortness of breath.
Choice D rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis (Choice D) involves an increase in blood pH due to decreased levels of carbon dioxide (hypocapnia) caused by hyperventilation. While respiratory alkalosis can occur in clients with COPD due to compensatory hyperventilation, it is not a direct assessment finding related to the client's symptoms of a wet cough and occasional shortness of breath.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Cleaning the wound by scrubbing the site with gauze is not an appropriate intervention for a stage 3 pressure ulcer. Scrubbing can damage the fragile tissue, increase the risk of infection, and delay wound healing. Gentle cleaning with a mild solution and avoiding trauma to the wound bed are recommended.
Choice B rationale:
Massaging reddened areas with dressing changes is contraindicated for pressure ulcers, especially stage 3 ulcers. Massaging can cause further damage to the tissues and disrupt the healing process. Dressing changes should focus on maintaining a clean and moist environment to promote healing.
Choice C rationale:
(Correct Choice) Repositioning the client at least every 2 hours is a crucial intervention to prevent further pressure ulcers and facilitate wound healing. Regular repositioning helps relieve pressure on specific areas and improves blood circulation, reducing the risk of tissue breakdown and the development of new ulcers.
Choice D rationale:
Applying a heat lamp twice a day is not recommended for stage 3 pressure ulcers. Heat can increase blood flow to the area, potentially exacerbating inflammation and delaying healing. Pressure ulcers require a clean and moist environment for optimal healing.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Admission assessment of a new client requires comprehensive evaluation, critical thinking, and clinical judgment. This task is within the scope of a registered nurse's responsibilities and should not be delegated to an LPN.
Choice B rationale:
Evaluating changes to a client's pressure ulcer also involves clinical judgment and assessment skills that fall within the domain of a registered nurse's role.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct choice. Tracheostomy care involves routine and standardized procedures that an LPN can perform under the supervision of a registered nurse. LPNs are trained to provide this type of care safely and effectively.
Choice D rationale:
Administering a blood transfusion is a complex procedure that requires careful monitoring and assessment for potential adverse reactions. This task is typically within the scope of a registered nurse's practice, not an LPN's.
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