The nurse is performing a respiratory assessment on a client. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the practitioner?
Clear and equal breath sounds bilaterally
Oxygen saturation of 98% on room air
Cough producing clear, thin sputum
Visible use of accessory muscles during inhalation
The Correct Answer is D
A. Clear and equal breath sounds bilaterally
Explanation: Clear and equal breath sounds bilaterally indicate normal lung sounds, suggesting proper air exchange in both lungs. This is a normal finding and does not require immediate reporting.
B. Oxygen saturation of 98% on room air
Explanation: An oxygen saturation level of 98% on room air indicates adequate oxygenation of the blood. This is a normal and healthy oxygen saturation level and does not require immediate reporting.
C. Cough producing clear, thin sputum
Explanation: A cough producing clear, thin sputum is indicative of a non-infected or non-inflammatory condition in the respiratory system. Clear and thin sputum is often normal, especially in the absence of other symptoms. It does not require immediate reporting unless the client has other concerning symptoms.
D. Visible use of accessory muscles during inhalation
Explanation: Visible use of accessory muscles, such as neck or intercostal muscles, during inhalation suggests that the client is working hard to breathe. This could indicate respiratory distress, potentially due to conditions like asthma, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), or other severe lung problems. It's a concerning sign and should be reported to the healthcare practitioner promptly for further evaluation and intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Frenulum:
The frenulum is a thin band of tissue in the mouth that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. It aids in the tongue's movement and flexibility during speaking and swallowing.
B. Palate:
The palate refers to the roof of the mouth. It has two parts: the hard palate (at the front, made of bone) and the soft palate (at the back, made of muscle). The palate plays a crucial role in speech and swallowing.
C. Uvula:
The uvula is a small, fleshy extension at the back of the soft palate in the mouth. It participates in various functions, including speech articulation, preventing food from entering the nasal cavity during swallowing, and producing certain sounds.

D. Papillae:
Papillae are small, raised structures on the tongue that contain taste buds. They are responsible for detecting different tastes: sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami (savory). Papillae give the tongue its rough texture.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. A shiny, pearly white color tympanic membrane: This is a normal finding. A healthy tympanic membrane often appears shiny and pearly white.
B. The presence of cerumen: This is a normal finding. Cerumen, or earwax, is a natural substance that helps protect the ear canal.
C. The presence of a cone of light: This is a normal finding. The cone of light is a reflection of the otoscope light on the tympanic membrane and is a normal variation.
D. A yellow or amber color to the tympanic membrane: This is considered an abnormal finding. A yellow or amber coloration of the tympanic membrane can indicate the presence of fluid or infection behind the eardrum, which may be a sign of otitis media or other ear conditions.

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