A nurse assesses a client’s respiratory status. Which observation indicates that the client is having difficulty breathing?

Diaphragmatic breathing

Controlled breathing

Pursed-lip breathing

Use of accessory muscles

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Diaphragmatic breathing:

Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as abdominal or deep breathing, is a normal and effective way of breathing. It involves the contraction and relaxation of the diaphragm, allowing for efficient lung expansion. This is a healthy and efficient breathing technique.

B. Controlled breathing:

Controlled breathing refers to a deliberate and regulated breathing pattern. It can include techniques such as paced breathing, where the individual consciously controls the rate and depth of their breaths. Controlled breathing is generally considered a positive and intentional approach to managing respiratory function.

C. Pursed-lip breathing:

Pursed-lip breathing is a breathing technique where the individual breathes in through the nose and exhales through pursed lips. This method is often taught to individuals with certain respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), to help improve lung function and alleviate shortness of breath. Pursed-lip breathing can be a helpful strategy in specific situations.

D. Use of accessory muscles:

The use of accessory muscles indicates that the person is experiencing increased difficulty in breathing. Accessory muscles, such as the neck and shoulder muscles, are not typically heavily involved in breathing under normal circumstances. When these muscles are visibly working during breathing, it suggests increased respiratory effort and can be a sign of respiratory distress or difficulty.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Kyphosis and clubbing of the fingers:

Kyphosis refers to an excessive forward curvature of the spine, which is not directly related to diminished breath sounds. Clubbing of the fingers is often associated with chronic respiratory conditions, but it is not directly linked to the finding of diminished breath sounds.

B. Dyspnea and hypoxemia:

Dyspnea (shortness of breath) and hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood) are common symptoms in COPD, but diminished breath sounds may indicate an additional concern, such as pneumothorax or other complications.

C. Sepsis and pneumothorax:

Diminished breath sounds can be a sign of pneumothorax, a condition where air accumulates in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. Sepsis is a risk in clients with COPD due to the potential for respiratory infections. Monitoring for these complications is crucial.

D. Bradypnea and pursed-lip breathing:

Bradypnea (slow breathing) and pursed-lip breathing are coping mechanisms that individuals with COPD may use to manage their breathing difficulties. While they are relevant in the context of COPD, they are not directly associated with the finding of diminished breath sounds.

A. The client with a history of a myocardial infarction who has a p wave before every QRS complex. B. The client diagnosed with heart failure who has bilateral 2+ pitting pedal edema. C. The client with sinus bradycardia (HR 56/min) that is reporting fatigue. D. The client diagnosed with coronary artery disease who is now reporting new onset of severe indigestion.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. The client with a history of a myocardial infarction who has a p wave before every QRS complex.

This may indicate a heart block, which requires attention. However, it's not an immediate life-threatening situation.

B. The client diagnosed with heart failure who has bilateral 2+ pitting pedal edema.

Bilateral pitting pedal edema is a sign of fluid overload, which is concerning and requires attention.

C. The client with sinus bradycardia (HR 56/min) that is reporting fatigue.

While bradycardia and fatigue are concerns, they might not be as urgent as the client with fluid overload.

D. The client diagnosed with coronary artery disease who is now reporting new onset of severe indigestion.

New onset of severe indigestion in a client with coronary artery disease raises concern for a potential cardiac event, and this should be addressed promptly.

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A nurse assesses a client’s respiratory status. Which observation indicates that the client is having difficulty breathing?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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