A nurse is assessing a patient who has chronic bronchitis. The nurse should expect the patient's chest to be which of the following shapes?

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.

Choice A rationale:

The choice "Pigeon" is not the correct answer. Pigeon chest, also known as pectus carinatum, is a deformity of the chest characterized by a protrusion of the sternum and ribs. This condition is not associated with chronic bronchitis.

Choice B rationale:

The choice "Funnel" is not the correct answer. Funnel chest, or pectus excavatum, is a deformity where the sternum is sunken into the chest. It is not the expected chest shape in chronic bronchitis.

Choice C rationale:

The choice "Kyphotic" is not the correct answer. Kyphosis refers to an excessive outward curvature of the thoracic spine, leading to a rounded upper back appearance. This is not the typical chest shape seen in chronic bronchitis.

Choice D rationale:

The correct answer is "Barrel." Choice D is the correct answer. Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by airway inflammation and narrowing. Over time, this can lead to air trapping in the lungs and an increase in the anteroposterior diameter of the chest. This results in a barrel-shaped chest appearance, where the chest appears rounded and the ribs are more horizontal. This adaptation allows for increased lung capacity to accommodate for the compromised airflow in patients with chronic bronchitis.