The nurse is palpating a client's anterior chest wall and notices a course, crackling sensation over the skin surface. Which of the following should the nurse suspect from her findings?
Friction rub
Tactile fremitus
Crepitus
Adventitious sounds
The Correct Answer is C
A. Friction rub:
A friction rub is a grating or rubbing sound or sensation heard or felt during auscultation or palpation. It occurs when inflamed pleural or pericardial surfaces rub against each other during breathing or heartbeats, respectively.
B. Tactile fremitus:
Tactile fremitus refers to the palpable vibrations transmitted through the bronchopulmonary tree to the chest wall as the patient speaks. It is assessed by placing hands on the patient's back while the patient speaks certain words. Increased tactile fremitus can occur in conditions with lung consolidation, such as pneumonia.
C. Crepitus:
Crepitus is a crackling or grating sensation felt under the skin or heard when the ends of a broken bone rub against each other. It can also occur when air leaks into subcutaneous tissue, leading to a crackling sensation upon palpation.
D. Adventitious sounds:
Adventitious sounds refer to abnormal lung sounds heard during auscultation. These sounds include crackles (rales), wheezes, rhonchi, and pleural friction rubs. Adventitious sounds can indicate various respiratory conditions, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or asthma.
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 best time to perform a BSE is 4 to 7 days after the first day of the menstrual period:
This statement is correct. Performing BSE a few days after the menstrual period ensures that the breasts are less likely to be swollen or tender, which can make it easier to detect any unusual changes.
B. If she suspects that she is pregnant, then the woman should not perform a BSE until her baby is born:
This statement is incorrect. Pregnant women can still perform breast self-examinations. In fact, it's important for pregnant women to be aware of any changes in their breasts.
C. The best time to perform BSE is in the middle of the menstrual cycle:
This statement is not as accurate as the first choice. While it's true that performing BSE a few days after the menstrual period can be easier due to reduced breast tenderness, it doesn't necessarily mean the middle of the menstrual cycle for every woman. The timing can vary based on an individual's menstrual cycle.
D. The woman needs to perform BSE only bimonthly unless she has fibrocystic breast tissue:
This statement is incorrect. Regular monthly breast self-examinations are recommended for all women, regardless of whether they have fibrocystic breast tissue or not. Detecting changes early is crucial for breast health.
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