The nurse is inspecting the anterior chest of an adult client. The nurse recognizes that which of the following should be included in the assessments?
Presence of breath sounds
Diaphragmatic excursion
Symmetric chest expansion
Shape and configuration of the chest wall
The Correct Answer is D
. Presence of breath sounds: While assessing the anterior chest, the nurse should listen for breath sounds over various areas of the lungs. However, this is related to auscultation, not inspection.
B. Diaphragmatic excursion: Diaphragmatic excursion involves assessing the movement of the diaphragm during breathing. This is typically done by percussing the level where dullness changes to resonance during inhalation and exhalation. It is more related to percussion, not inspection.
C. Symmetric chest expansion: Symmetric chest expansion refers to the equal expansion of both sides of the chest during inhalation. The nurse can observe and palpate the chest to assess if it expands symmetrically on both sides. This is a crucial aspect of the inspection of the anterior chest.
D. Shape and configuration of the chest wall: The shape and configuration of the chest wall, including abnormalities or deformities, should be assessed during inspection. This includes observing for any asymmetry, deformities, masses, or scars on the anterior chest.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Indicates the beginning of diastole: This statement is not accurate. S2, the second heart sound, indicates the end of systole and the beginning of diastole. It is specifically associated with the closure of the aortic and pulmonary valves.
B. Coincides with the carotid artery pulse: This statement is not accurate. S2 is associated with the closure of the aortic and pulmonary valves in the heart, not with the carotid artery pulse.
C. Is louder than an S1: This statement is not accurate. S1, the first heart sound, is usually louder than S2. S1 is associated with the closure of the mitral and tricuspid valves and marks the beginning of systole.
D. Is caused by the closure of the semilunar valves: This statement is accurate. S2 is caused by the closure of the aortic and pulmonary valves, which are the semilunar valves in the heart. It marks the end of systole and the beginning of diastole.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Percussion of the posterior chest: Percussion helps assess the underlying structures of the chest but does not directly confirm symmetric chest expansion.
B. Inspection of the shape and configuration of the chest wall: Inspection is a crucial part of assessing chest symmetry. Any deformities, asymmetry, or abnormalities in the shape and configuration of the chest wall can be visually identified.
C. Placing the palmar surface of the fingers of one hand against the chest and having the client repeat "ninety-nine": This technique, known as tactile fremitus, involves feeling for vibrations or tremors while the client repeats a phrase. While it can provide information about underlying lung conditions, it's not primarily used to confirm symmetric chest expansion.
D. Placing hands sideways on the posterolateral chest wall with thumbs pointing together at the level of T9 or T10: This technique, known as chest expansion measurement, is used to assess symmetric chest expansion. Placing hands in this manner allows the nurse to feel for bilateral chest expansion during inspiration, ensuring that both sides of the chest expand symmetrically.

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