The patient with emphysema comes to the emergency department with difficulty breathing. What finding should the nurse anticipate during data collection? Select all that apply
diminished breath sounds
ruddy skin color
use of accessory muscles
excess mucus production
barrel shaped chest
Correct Answer : A,C,E
A. Diminished breath sounds can occur in emphysema due to decreased air movement through damaged and enlarged air sacs (alveoli). The destruction of alveolar walls reduces the surface area available for gas exchange and can result in decreased breath sounds.
C. Patients with emphysema may use accessory muscles, such as neck and shoulder muscles, to assist with breathing during periods of respiratory distress. These muscles are recruited to help increase the size of the thoracic cavity and improve airflow.
E. A barrel-shaped chest is a common physical finding in patients with emphysema. It results from hyperinflation of the lungs and is characterized by an increased anterior-posterior diameter of the chest. This change in chest shape is due to air trapping in the lungs, leading to overinflation of the alveoli and increased residual volume.
B. Ruddy skin color, which refers to a reddish or flushed complexion, is not typically associated with emphysema. Instead, patients with emphysema may exhibit cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin) during periods of hypoxemia (low oxygen levels).
D. Excess mucus production (mucus hypersecretion) is a characteristic feature of chronic bronchitis, which is often present alongside emphysema in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) but it is not typically a primary feature of emphysema itself.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Lean proteins like baked turkey breast are generally well-tolerated by individuals with GERD. Turkey is low in fat, which reduces the likelihood of triggering reflux symptoms.
B. Spaghetti with red sauce can be problematic for individuals with GERD due to the acidity of the tomato sauce, which can exacerbate reflux symptoms. Tomato-based foods are often best avoided or consumed in moderation by those with GERD.
C. Corned beef brisket is high in fat, which can increase the risk of reflux symptoms. Fatty foods, especially those high in saturated fat like corned beef, are known triggers for GERD.
D. Citrus flavors, including lemon, can trigger reflux symptoms in some individuals. However, if the dish is prepared with a small amount of lemon pepper seasoning and does not cause symptoms for the individual, it may be acceptable.
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
B. Bronchodilators are medications commonly used to relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow in patients with COPD. They work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. Providing bronchodilators as prescribed can help alleviate difficulty breathing and improve the patient's respiratory function.
D. Smoking cessation is essential for patients with COPD as smoking is the leading cause of the disease and can exacerbate respiratory symptoms. Quitting smoking can slow the progression of COPD, reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations, and improve overall lung function.
E. Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications commonly used to reduce airway inflammation and control exacerbations in patients with COPD. They can help improve breathing and reduce the severity of respiratory symptoms during acute exacerbations.
A. Offering small frequent meals can help reduce the sensation of fullness and bloating, which can sometimes occur in patients with COPD due to increased abdominal pressure from compromised respiratory function. However, this is not specific to COPD.
C. Weaning from oxygen should be done cautiously and under the guidance of healthcare providers but not in the state of difficulty in breathing. Oxygen therapy is often necessary for patients with COPD who experience difficulty breathing, especially during acute exacerbations. Therefore, weaning from oxygen may be appropriate once the patient's respiratory status stabilizes and oxygen saturation levels improve.
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