A primary health care provider orders chest physiotherapy with percussion and vibration for a client. After the health care provider leaves, the client says, “I still don’t understand the purpose of this therapy.” Which statement should be included in the nurse’s response?
Promotes the flow of secretions to the base of the lungs.
Eliminates the need to cough.
Helps clear the airways of excessive secretions.
Limits the production of bronchial mucus.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: While chest physiotherapy can help mobilize secretions, it does not specifically promote the flow of secretions to the base of the lungs. The primary goal is to loosen and mobilize secretions so they can be coughed up and cleared from the airways. This helps improve overall lung function and oxygenation.
Choice B reason: Chest physiotherapy does not eliminate the need to cough. In fact, coughing is an essential part of the process as it helps expel the loosened secretions from the airways. The therapy aims to make coughing more effective by loosening the mucus.
Choice C reason: The primary purpose of chest physiotherapy with percussion and vibration is to help clear the airways of excessive secretions. This is particularly important for patients with conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, or pneumonia, where mucus buildup can obstruct the airways and impair breathing. By loosening and mobilizing the secretions, the therapy facilitates their removal through coughing.
Choice D reason: Chest physiotherapy does not limit the production of bronchial mucus. It focuses on clearing existing mucus from the airways rather than reducing its production. The production of mucus is influenced by underlying conditions and may require other treatments to manage.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Atelectasis is a common postoperative complication, especially in patients who have undergone abdominal or thoracic surgery. It occurs when the alveoli in the lungs collapse, leading to reduced or absent breath sounds in the affected areas. This condition can result from shallow breathing, pain, or immobility after surgery. The absence of breath sounds in the bases of the lungs is a key indicator of atelectasis. Preventive measures include encouraging deep breathing exercises, using incentive spirometry, and early mobilization of the patient.

Choice B Reason:
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs, causing a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries. While PE can present with symptoms such as sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heart rate, it is less likely to cause absent breath sounds in the lung bases. Instead, PE may lead to decreased oxygen levels and respiratory distress. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as a CT pulmonary angiography.
Choice C Reason:
Arterial thrombus refers to a blood clot that forms in an artery, which can lead to tissue ischemia and infarction. This condition is more commonly associated with cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke. It does not typically present with absent breath sounds in the lungs. Instead, symptoms may include pain, pallor, and loss of function in the affected area. Diagnosis and treatment focus on restoring blood flow to the affected tissues.
Choice D Reason:
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can cause symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. While pneumonia can lead to abnormal breath sounds, such as crackles or wheezes, it is less likely to cause completely absent breath sounds in the lung bases. Pneumonia is usually diagnosed through clinical examination, chest X-rays, and sputum cultures. Treatment involves antibiotics and supportive care to manage symptoms.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Open the client’s visual acuity using a Snellen chart is incorrect. This action assesses cranial nerve II (optic nerve), which is responsible for vision. The Snellen chart is used to measure visual acuity, not the function of cranial nerve VI
Choice B Reason:
Whisper none of the client’s ears while blocking the other is incorrect. This action assesses cranial nerve VIII (vestibulocochlear nerve), which is responsible for hearing and balance. Whispering tests the auditory function of this nerve.
Choice C Reason:
Ask the client to inspect up is correct. Cranial nerve VI (abducens nerve) controls the lateral rectus muscle, which is responsible for moving the eye outward. Asking the client to look up and outward helps assess the function of this nerve.
Choice D Reason:
Ask the client to smile is incorrect. This action assesses cranial nerve VII (facial nerve), which controls the muscles of facial expression. Smiling tests the motor function of this nerve.
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