An admitting nurse is assessing a client with COPD. The nurse auscultates diminished breath sounds. These findings indicated the nurse to monitor the client for what?
Kyphosis and clubbing of the fingers
Dyspnea and hypoxemia
Sepsis and pneumothorax
Bradypnea and pursed-lip breathing
The Correct Answer is C
A. Kyphosis and clubbing of the fingers:
Kyphosis refers to an excessive forward curvature of the spine, which is not directly related to diminished breath sounds. Clubbing of the fingers is often associated with chronic respiratory conditions, but it is not directly linked to the finding of diminished breath sounds.
B. Dyspnea and hypoxemia:
Dyspnea (shortness of breath) and hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood) are common symptoms in COPD, but diminished breath sounds may indicate an additional concern, such as pneumothorax or other complications.
C. Sepsis and pneumothorax:
Diminished breath sounds can be a sign of pneumothorax, a condition where air accumulates in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. Sepsis is a risk in clients with COPD due to the potential for respiratory infections. Monitoring for these complications is crucial.

D. Bradypnea and pursed-lip breathing:
Bradypnea (slow breathing) and pursed-lip breathing are coping mechanisms that individuals with COPD may use to manage their breathing difficulties. While they are relevant in the context of COPD, they are not directly associated with the finding of diminished breath sounds.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Normal sinus rhythm that becomes sinus tachycardia
Sinus tachycardia can be an indication of increased sympathetic activity in response to decreased cardiac output. It may suggest the heart's compensatory response to maintain adequate perfusion.
B. Onset of a cough with pink, frothy sputum
Pink, frothy sputum is a classic sign of pulmonary edema, which can occur in the setting of worsening heart failure. It indicates the presence of blood-tinged fluid in the alveoli.
C. Presence of dyspnea at rest
Dyspnea at rest suggests that the client is experiencing difficulty breathing even without physical exertion. This can be indicative of more severe heart failure.
D. Falls asleep when not disturbed
Falling asleep when not disturbed may indicate fatigue or exhaustion, which is common in individuals with heart failure. However, it is not a direct indicator of worsening heart failure and can be influenced by various factors.
E. Urine drainage is increased in amount
Increased urine output can be a sign of diuretic therapy or an attempt by the body to compensate for fluid overload. However, it is essential to consider other factors such as renal function and medication effects.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Obtain a sputum sample:
This option is more relevant when the client is experiencing cough with sputum production, which might suggest respiratory issues. However, in the context of coughing after eating or drinking, the primary concern is likely related to the swallowing process rather than respiratory conditions.
B. Inspect the client’s tongue and mouth:
While inspecting the tongue and mouth is a good practice for assessing oral health, it may not directly address the issue of coughing after eating or drinking, which is more indicative of potential swallowing difficulties.
C. Perform a swallowing assessment:
This is the most appropriate option for the given scenario. A swallowing assessment helps identify any abnormalities or difficulties in the swallowing process, which could contribute to the client's coughing after eating or drinking.
D. Assess the client’s nutritional status:
While assessing nutritional status is important for overall health, it may not directly address the immediate concern of coughing after eating or drinking. Nutritional status assessment is a broader aspect of care.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.