During a routine physical examination of a middle-aged female client, chest palpation is determined to be normal except for a 2 inch diameter area of crepitus over the upper right anterior chest. Which is the most accurate interpretation of this finding?

Since this client has only a small area of crepitus, it probably is not a significant finding.

Crepitus is always abnormal and should be followed-up with a more detailed assessment.

Trapped subcutaneous air causing crepitus will be absorbed, so the finding is not significant.

Since a fractured rib often creates crepitus, a chest x-ray should be scheduled immediately.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   The presence of crepitus, regardless of size, indicates air trapped in the subcutaneous tissue, which can be associated with various conditions including trauma, infection, or underlying lung issues. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the finding further rather than assuming it is insignificant.
B.   This is the most accurate interpretation. Crepitus is indeed an abnormal finding and warrants further investigation. Its presence can indicate underlying issues such as subcutaneous emphysema, which may be related to trauma, infections, or other conditions that need to be addressed. A more detailed assessment, including possible imaging or additional diagnostic tests, should be pursued to determine the cause and appropriate management.
C.   While it is true that subcutaneous air can be absorbed over time, the presence of crepitus is still an abnormal finding that needs to be evaluated. The underlying cause of the trapped air must be identified, as it may indicate an injury or other health issues that require intervention. Simply assuming that it will resolve on its own without further investigation could overlook a potentially serious condition.
D.   While a fractured rib can cause crepitus, this finding alone does not necessarily mean an immediate chest x-ray is required. The decision to order an x-ray should be based on a comprehensive assessment of the client’s symptoms, history, and physical examination findings. Although a rib fracture is a possible cause, other conditions such as subcutaneous emphysema or infections should also be considered.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Varicosities, or varicose veins, are dilated veins that appear on the skin and are often associated with venous insufficiency. While they can be symptomatic and require management, they typically do not constitute an immediate medical emergency. Varicosities are generally managed with lifestyle changes, compression therapy, or medical procedures, but they are not usually life-threatening.
B. Lack of hair growth on the lower legs can indicate poor circulation, commonly seen in conditions like peripheral arterial disease (PAD). While it is a concerning finding and suggests potential arterial insufficiency, it is not usually an immediate emergency.
C. A Stage 2 pressure injury is characterized by partial-thickness loss of dermis, presenting as a shallow, open ulcer with a pink wound bed. While it requires attention to prevent progression and manage the wound, it is not an immediate emergency compared to other findings that suggest acute complications.

D. Right calf swelling and tenderness are critical findings that could indicate a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. DVT can lead to life-threatening complications such as pulmonary embolism if the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs.

A. A cloudy discharge. B. An overactive bladder C. Black tarry stools. D. A weak urinary stream.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Cloudy discharge is more commonly associated with infections or discharge from the genital area rather than residual urinary symptoms. While urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause cloudy urine, this is not typically associated with suprapubic tenderness or the sensation of residual pressure alone.
B. An overactive bladder is characterized by symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and sometimes incontinence. However, it does not typically cause suprapubic tenderness or a sensation of residual pressure after urination. The described symptoms are more consistent with bladder outlet obstruction or incomplete bladder emptying rather than an overactive bladder.

C. Black tarry stools indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding and are unrelated to urinary symptoms. This finding would suggest a different issue entirely, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, rather than a problem with the urinary tract or bladder. This is not consistent with the client's reported symptoms of suprapubic tenderness and sensation of residual pressure after urination.
D. A weak urinary stream is a common symptom associated with bladder outlet obstruction or conditions affecting urinary flow, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in older men. This finding aligns with the client's reported symptoms of suprapubic tenderness and feeling of residual pressure after urination.

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During a routine physical examination of a middle-aged female client, chest palpation is determined to be normal except for a 2 inch diameter area of crepitus over the upper right anterior chest. Which is the most accurate interpretation of this finding?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

When assessing a client's lower extremities, which finding requires immediate intervention by the nurse?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The nurse is examining the abdomen of an older male client who expresses suprapubic tenderness on palpation. The client reports that it sometimes feels like there is still pressure in that area after urination. Which additional finding should the nurse expect with continued interview of the client?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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