A nurse is assessing a client for tactile fremitus. The nurse should recognize that it is normal to feel tactile fremitus most intensely over which location?
Fifth intercostal space, midaxillary line
Between the scapulae
Third intercostal space, midaxillary line
Over the lobes, posterior side
The Correct Answer is B
A) Fifth intercostal space, midaxillary line:
This is incorrect. The fifth intercostal space at the midaxillary line is a location that can be assessed for tactile fremitus, but it is not typically where fremitus is felt most intensely. Fremitus tends to be stronger near the midline structures, such as over the trachea, rather than at this lateral position, which is more peripheral.
B) Between the scapulae:
This is the correct answer. Tactile fremitus is usually most intense over the area between the scapulae and near the sternum. This is because the bronchi and trachea are located close to the chest wall in these regions, creating more intense vibrations that can be palpated during assessment. The fremitus is transmitted through the airways and is easiest to feel when the lung tissue is close to the chest wall, as in the area between the scapulae.
C) Third intercostal space, midaxillary line:
This is incorrect. The third intercostal space at the midaxillary line is not typically the site where tactile fremitus is most prominent. This area is more peripheral, and fremitus tends to be weaker here compared to regions closer to the sternum or between the scapulae where the lungs are nearer to the chest wall.
D) Over the lobes, posterior side:
This is incorrect. While tactile fremitus can be assessed over the posterior lobes of the lungs, it is not generally felt most intensely here. Fremitus is usually stronger near the midline of the chest (sternum) or between the scapulae, and tends to be weaker as you move laterally or toward the lower lobes of the lungs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) The partner places the client's arm above the level of the client's heart:
This action indicates that further instruction is needed. For an accurate blood pressure reading, the arm should be at heart level (approximately at the level of the fourth intercostal space) when taking the measurement. If the arm is placed above the heart, it can result in a falsely low reading. If the arm is positioned below the heart, it can lead to a falsely high reading. The position of the arm is crucial for obtaining an accurate blood pressure measurement.
B) The partner centres the cuff bladder over the client's brachial artery:
This is the correct technique. The cuff bladder should be centered over the brachial artery for accurate readings. Proper cuff placement ensures the best possible measurement and avoids errors in reading due to misplacement.
C) The partner wraps the blood pressure cuff around the client's arm using firm pressure:
This is also correct. The cuff should be wrapped snugly around the upper arm with firm pressure to ensure that it fits properly. If the cuff is too loose or too tight, it may give inaccurate readings. However, it should never be excessively tight.
D) The partner checks the instrument gauge to ensure the reading starts at zero:
This is a correct action. Before using a blood pressure cuff, it is important to check that the gauge starts at zero when the cuff is deflated. This ensures the manometer is calibrated properly and provides accurate readings. If the gauge does not start at zero, it should be recalibrated or replaced.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Daily, during the shower or bath:
This is incorrect. Performing a breast self-examination (BSE) daily is not necessary. The goal of BSE is to check for any changes over time, not to examine the breasts every day. It's more effective to perform the exam regularly at a consistent time each month.
B) One week after the menstrual period:
This is incorrect. This instruction is relevant for pre-menopausal women, where the hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle can cause breast tissue to feel lumpy or swollen. The best time for them to perform a BSE is one week after the menstrual period ends when the breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. However, for postmenopausal women, this is not necessary, as their hormonal levels are stable throughout the month.
C) On the same day every month:
This is the correct answer. For postmenopausal women, who no longer have menstrual cycles, the best time to perform a breast self-exam is on the same day every month. This ensures consistency and makes it easier for the client to notice any changes in the breast tissue over time. The day chosen should be one that is convenient and easy to remember, and it does not matter whether it is during the shower or bath, as long as the examination is done regularly.
D) Weekly, at the client's convenience:
This is incorrect. While performing a BSE weekly is not necessary, the key is consistency rather than frequency. Performing the exam monthly is sufficient, and it should be on a specific day each month, rather than at the client’s convenience on an irregular basis.
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