The nurse is on the medical/surgical floor is getting a new admission. The client is being admitted for shortness of breath (dyspnea). Which assessment finding would be of concern?
Respiratory rate of 20
Vesicular sounds heard in the lung periphery
Capillary refill time of 5 seconds
AP diameter of 1:2
Equal chest expansion
The Correct Answer is C
A. A respiratory rate of 20 is within the normal range for adults (12-20 breaths per minute), especially in someone experiencing dyspnea.
B. Vesicular sounds in the lung periphery are normal findings, particularly in healthy lung areas.
C. A capillary refill time of 5 seconds indicates poor perfusion and could suggest systemic issues or hypoxia, which is concerning in a patient with dyspnea.
D. An anteroposterior (AP) diameter of 1:2 is normal; a barrel chest might indicate chronic respiratory conditions but is not an immediate concern in this context.
E. Equal chest expansion is a normal finding and indicates effective respiratory mechanics.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A barrel chest is a common finding in patients with emphysema due to lung hyperinflation but is not immediately life-threatening.
B. A respiratory rate of 22 per minute indicates mild tachypnea, which can be expected in patients with COPD, but is not the most alarming sign.
C. Oral cyanosis is a concerning sign that indicates inadequate oxygenation and can suggest severe respiratory distress or failure, necessitating immediate intervention.
D. Decreased lung sounds on expiration can occur in emphysema but is not as critical as the presence of cyanosis.
E. Pursed-lip expiration is a compensatory mechanism used by patients with COPD to improve breathing efficiency; it is generally a positive adaptive strategy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Fluid restriction by mouth is not typically necessary with opioid administration unless other health conditions require it.
B. A low salt diet is unrelated to opioid administration unless there are concurrent health issues like hypertension or fluid retention.
C. A chest x-ray is not indicated solely due to opioid use.
D. Stool softener medication is commonly prescribed alongside opioid medications because opioids frequently cause constipation due to reduced gastrointestinal motility.
E. Antidiarrheal medication is not needed, as opioids are more likely to cause constipation rather than diarrhea.
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