The nurse is examining an adult client within normal weight limit. The nurse notices that he has bilateral gynecomastia. Which of the following describes the nurse's best course of action?

A. Atelectatic crackles that do not have a pathologic cause:

Atelectatic crackles are short, popping, crackling sounds heard during auscultation. They occur in individuals who are in a supine position and disappear after a few breaths. These crackles are not indicative of any pathological condition; they are common when the lungs are not fully aerated, especially when a person is lying down.

B. Vesicular breath sounds:

Vesicular breath sounds are normal lung sounds heard over the peripheral lung areas. They are soft, low-pitched, and continuous throughout inspiration and part of expiration. Vesicular breath sounds are the typical sounds heard during routine breathing and are not associated with crackling or popping noises.

C. Fine wheezes:

Wheezes are high-pitched whistling sounds heard during expiration. They occur due to narrowed airways and are commonly associated with conditions like asthma or bronchoconstriction. Fine wheezes suggest a partial obstruction in the smaller airways, causing turbulent airflow, leading to the characteristic sound.

D. Fine crackles and may be a sign of pneumonia:

Fine crackles are high-pitched, discontinuous, crackling sounds heard during inspiration. They can occur due to the sudden opening of small airways, and their presence may indicate fluid in the lungs or lung inflammation. Fine crackles are often associated with conditions such as pneumonia, heart failure, or interstitial lung diseases.

A. Inform the client that his breast enlargement is benign, and normal for a man of his age:

This choice is not appropriate because while gynecomastia can be benign, it should not be assumed without a proper medical evaluation. Gynecomastia can have various causes, including hormonal imbalances or underlying medical conditions. It's crucial to identify the cause through a medical assessment.

B. Explain that this condition may be the result of hormonal changes, and recommend that he see his physician:

This is the correct choice. Gynecomastia can indeed be caused by hormonal changes, but it can also be due to medications, certain health conditions, or hormonal imbalances. Therefore, the nurse should recommend a medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management.

C. Recommend that he alter his diet to include fewer fats and more lean proteins:

This choice is not relevant to gynecomastia. Gynecomastia is not typically caused by dietary factors, so altering the diet would not be a suitable response to this situation.

D. Explain that gynecomastia in men is usually associated with prostate enlargement and recommend that he be thoroughly screened:

This choice is incorrect. Gynecomastia is not directly associated with prostate enlargement. While both conditions can occur in older men, they are distinct medical issues. Screening for prostate enlargement is not indicated based solely on the presence of gynecomastia. Proper evaluation and assessment of each condition are necessary.