What is the underlying rationale for why a nurse assesses a client with emphysema for clinical indicators of hypoxia?
Increased mucus production blocks the alveoli
Infections decrease ventilation
Lack of adequate surface area for aeration
Inflammation of the bronchioles decreases breathing capacity
The Correct Answer is C
A. Increased mucus production blocking the alveoli is incorrect. While mucus production can be an issue in COPD, it is more characteristic of chronic bronchitis rather than emphysema.
B. Infections decreasing ventilation is incorrect. Although infections can worsen emphysema symptoms, they are not the primary cause of chronic hypoxia in these clients.
C. Lack of adequate surface area for aeration is correct. Emphysema leads to alveolar destruction and loss of elasticity, reducing the surface area available for gas exchange, which causes chronic hypoxia.
D. Inflammation of the bronchioles decreasing breathing capacity is incorrect. While airway inflammation is seen in conditions like asthma and chronic bronchitis, emphysema is primarily characterized by alveolar damage rather than airway inflammation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypertension is not a direct risk factor for COPD. However, COPD and hypertension can coexist, especially in smokers.
B. Being male was once associated with a higher COPD prevalence, but COPD affects both sexes, especially as smoking habits have become more equal.
C. Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency is correct. AAT deficiency is a genetic disorder that leads to early-onset emphysema, even in non-smokers. It impairs the lungs' ability to protect themselves from enzymatic damage.
D. History of pulmonary embolism is not a primary risk factor for COPD, though lung damage from recurrent emboli can contribute to respiratory issues.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Atherosclerosis is correct. It is the primary cause of myocardial infarction (MI) due to the narrowing and eventual blockage of coronary arteries by plaque buildup, leading to reduced oxygen supply to the heart muscle.
B. Obesity is a risk factor for MI but is not the direct cause. It contributes to conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and atherosclerosis, which increase MI risk.
C. Hypertension increases the risk of MI by damaging blood vessels over time, but it is not the most common direct cause.
D. Diabetes Mellitus type 2 is a risk factor because it contributes to vascular damage and atherosclerosis, but it is not the primary cause of an MI.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.