The nurse is doing an assessment of an adult client and noticed unequal chest expansion. The nurse recognizes that unequal chest expansion occurs:
When part of the lung is obstructed or collapsed
When bulging of the intercostal spaces is present
In an obese patient
When accessory muscles are used to augment respiratory effort
The Correct Answer is A
A. When part of the lung is obstructed or collapsed: This statement is accurate. Unequal chest expansion can occur when part of the lung is obstructed or collapsed, preventing the affected area from expanding normally during inhalation.
B. When bulging of the intercostal spaces is present: This statement is not accurate. Unequal chest expansion typically refers to decreased expansion on one side, not bulging of intercostal spaces.
C. In an obese patient: This statement is not accurate. Obesity can affect breathing patterns and lung function, but it is not the primary cause of unequal chest expansion.
D. When accessory muscles are used to augment respiratory effort: This statement is not accurate. The use of accessory muscles to augment respiratory effort can be a sign of respiratory distress, but it doesn't directly cause unequal chest expansion. Unequal expansion is more indicative of specific lung conditions or issues with lung mechanics.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Fifth left intercostal space at the midclavicular line:
Explanation: The apical pulse, or the point of maximal impulse (PMI), is typically located at the fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line on the chest. This is the area where the heartbeat is best heard using a stethoscope in most adults.
B. Third left intercostal space at the midclavicular line:
Explanation: This location is too high for the apical pulse. The heart's apex is generally not found at the third intercostal space; it's lower, closer to the fifth intercostal space.
C. Fourth left intercostal space at the sternal border:
Explanation: This location is not the typical site for auscultating the apical pulse. The PMI is usually heard at the midclavicular line, not at the sternal border.
D. Under the left breast at the midclavicular line:
Explanation: This position is not precise enough for auscultating the apical pulse. The specific intercostal space (fifth) and midclavicular line are crucial for accurate assessment.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The location of most breast tumors: This choice is correct. The upper outer quadrant of the breast is the most common site for breast tumors. This area has a higher concentration of glandular tissue, making it more susceptible to the development of tumors. Therefore, thorough examination of this area is crucial during breast examinations.
B. More prone to Injury and calcifications than other locations in the breast: While injuries can occur in any part of the breast, the statement about calcifications is not accurate. Calcifications in breast tissue can occur in various areas and are not specific to the upper outer quadrant.
C. The largest quadrant of the breast: This statement is not accurate. The breast quadrants are not distinguished by size; they are anatomical divisions used for reference during breast examinations. Each quadrant has its significance for examination purposes, but none is considered the largest.
D. Where most of the suspensory ligaments attach: The suspensory ligaments, also known as Cooper's ligaments, provide structural support to the breast tissue. While they are essential for breast anatomy, they are not concentrated in the upper outer quadrant exclusively. These ligaments are distributed throughout the breast tissue.

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