A nurse is assessing the symmetry of a client's chest. The nurse should understand that which technique best confirms symmetric expansion of the chest?

Inspection of the shape and configuration of the chest during normal breathing

Placing hands sideways on the posterolateral chest wall with thumbs pointing together at the level of T9 or T10

Percussion of the posterior chest to initiate vibration of the lung structures

Placing the palmar surface of the fingers of one hand against the chest and having the client repeat "ninety nine’’

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A) Inspection of the shape and configuration of the chest during normal breathing:
While inspecting the shape and configuration of the chest can provide important information about potential deformities or abnormalities (such as a barrel chest or scoliosis), it does not directly assess the symmetry of chest expansion. Inspection primarily focuses on the external appearance rather than the physiological movement of the chest wall during respiration. Symmetry of chest expansion requires more than visual observation; it involves assessing the movement of the chest during inhalation and exhalation.

B) Placing hands sideways on the posterolateral chest wall with thumbs pointing together at the level of T9 or T10:
This technique is the most effective for confirming symmetric expansion of the chest. The nurse places their hands on the patient's back, with the thumbs positioned at the level of T9 or T10, and asks the patient to take a deep breath. As the patient inhales, the nurse assesses the expansion of both sides of the chest by observing whether the thumbs move apart symmetrically. This test directly evaluates the expansion of the lungs and chest wall during respiration and is the most accurate way to assess symmetry.

C) Percussion of the posterior chest to initiate vibration of the lung structures:
Percussion is a technique used to assess the underlying lung tissue and the presence of conditions like pneumonia, fluid accumulation, or air trapping. It does not directly assess the symmetry of chest expansion. While percussion may provide valuable diagnostic information about the lungs, it does not help in determining how evenly the chest is expanding during normal breathing.

D) Placing the palmar surface of the fingers of one hand against the chest and having the client repeat "ninety-nine":
This technique refers to vocal fremitus, where the nurse places their hands on the client's chest while the client repeats "ninety-nine." It helps assess the transmission of sound vibrations through the chest wall, which can be used to detect areas of consolidation or fluid in the lungs. However, it does not directly evaluate the symmetry of chest expansion. The vibration felt on both sides of the chest may be different in cases of lung disease, but this test does not assess the movement of the chest during breathing.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]

Explanation

A) Client's oral temperature is 38.4°C (101.2°F):
This is objective data, as it is a measurable, observable finding obtained through direct assessment (in this case, using a thermometer). Objective data are facts or measurements that can be verified or observed by the healthcare provider.

B) Client reports the rash on their back is itchy:
This is subjective data, as it is based on the client's personal experience and report. The feeling of itchiness cannot be directly measured or observed by the nurse; it is something the client experiences and describes. Subjective data include symptoms, sensations, or feelings reported by the client.

C) Client reports nausea following administration of pain medication:
This is subjective data. Nausea is a symptom that the client reports experiencing, which cannot be objectively measured or directly observed by the nurse. It is based on the client's perception and report, making it subjective.

D) Client has a vesicular rash on their upper back:
This is objective data. The rash is something the nurse can observe and describe. Objective data include observable facts, such as physical exam findings, lab results, or diagnostic test results.

E) Client reports dull, aching pain in lower right calf:
This is subjective data, as pain is a sensation that the client experiences and describes. The intensity, location, and type of pain (dull, aching) are subjective experiences that only the client can report.

A. The partner places the client's arm above the level of the client's heart B. The partner centres the cuff bladder over the client's brachial artery C. The partner wraps the blood pressure cuff around the client's using firm pressure D. The partner checks the instrument gauge to ensure the reading starts at zero

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.

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A nurse is assessing the symmetry of a client's chest. The nurse should understand that which technique best confirms symmetric expansion of the chest?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is documenting assessment findings on a client. Which of the following entries should the nurse identify as subjective data? (Select All that Apply.)

Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]

Explanation

A nurse is teaching a client's partner about how to obtain a blood pressure reading. Which of the following actions by the partner should indicate that further instruction is needed?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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