A client presents to the emergency room reporting sudden, sharp pain on the right side of the chest and shortness of breath. The right side of the chest is not moving with inspiration. The client's trachea is deviated towards the left: there is absence tactile fremitus on the right side of the chest. Upon percussion, the nurse hears hyperresonant sound on the right side of the thorax. Upon auscultation, no breath sounds are heard on the right. Which disorder would the nurse suspect?
Asthma.
Pneumothorax.
Atelectasis.
Pneumonia.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Asthma - Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by bronchoconstriction, inflammation, and increased mucus production. It does not typically present with absent breath sounds, deviation of the trachea, or hyperresonant percussion sounds. Wheezing is a common finding in asthma.
Choice B rationale:
Pneumothorax - This is the correct choice. The scenario describes classic signs of a tension pneumothorax, which is a medical emergency. The tracheal deviation, absence of breath sounds, and hyperresonant percussion note on the affected side are indicative of air accumulation in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse and displacement of mediastinal structures.
Choice C rationale:
Atelectasis - Atelectasis refers to the collapse or incomplete expansion of a lung or part of a lung. It can lead to decreased breath sounds on auscultation but does not usually cause tracheal deviation or hyperresonance on percussion. It is not the best fit for the described signs.
Choice D rationale:
Pneumonia - Pneumonia is an infection of the lung tissue that can cause symptoms like fever, cough, and productive sputum. Breath sounds may be diminished over the affected area due to consolidation, but the absence of breath sounds, tracheal deviation, and hyperresonance point more strongly toward a pneumothorax in this case.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Using an internet webpage translator might seem convenient, but it can lead to inaccuracies in communication due to language nuances and medical terminology. Direct communication with a human translator is more reliable.
Choice B rationale:
Arranging to complete the assessment with only the client and a translator present is the best option. This approach ensures accurate and confidential communication, allowing the nurse to gather essential information directly from the client without potential bias or misinterpretation from family members.
Choice C rationale:
Asking the client's husband to translate questions and answers for the client can lead to inaccurate or biased information. Additionally, it might not provide a safe environment for the client to openly share her concerns.
Choice D rationale:
Asking a male student nurse to translate for the client does not necessarily address the language barrier adequately. The gender of the translator is not the primary concern here. Ensuring effective communication through a professional translator is more important.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A macular rash on the chest and back is not indicative of a paradoxical drug reaction to lorazepam, a benzodiazepine. Paradoxical reactions involve unexpected and opposite responses to a medication, such as increased agitation and excitement instead of the intended calming effect. A rash is not consistent with this type of reaction.
Choice B rationale:
Increased appetite is not associated with a paradoxical drug reaction to lorazepam. Paradoxical reactions involve behavioral and physiological responses that are contrary to the expected effects of the medication. Increased appetite does not fit this pattern.
Choice C rationale:
Drowsiness and mild sedation are the intended effects of lorazepam, a benzodiazepine. Paradoxical reactions are characterized by unexpected and opposite responses. Drowsiness and mild sedation align with the expected pharmacological actions of benzodiazepines, making this choice incorrect for a paradoxical reaction.
Choice D rationale:
Increased agitation and insomnia are indicative of a paradoxical drug reaction to lorazepam. Benzodiazepines like lorazepam are central nervous system depressants and are commonly used to treat anxiety and promote sedation. However, in some cases, paradoxical reactions can occur, leading to increased agitation, excitement, and even insomnia. These reactions are thought to be more common in children and older adults. This choice is correct because it aligns with the characteristics of a paradoxical reaction.
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