A nurse is collecting data from a school-age child who has asthma. The nurse should identify which of the following findings?
Periodic episodes of wheezing
Low-grade fever in the afternoon
Abrupt onset of
set of sharp pleuritic pain
The Correct Answer is A
A. Wheezing, which is a high-pitched whistling sound heard during expiration, is a common symptom of asthma. It occurs due to narrowed airways and airflow obstruction, often in response to triggers such as allergens, respiratory infections, or exercise.
B. Low-grade fever in the afternoon is not typically associated with asthma. Fever is more commonly seen in response to infections, such as respiratory infections, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms but is not a direct manifestation of asthma itself.
C. Without the complete statement, it is difficult to assess its relevance to asthma symptoms. However, an abrupt onset of symptoms, such as sudden shortness of breath or chest tightness, may occur during an asthma attack or exacerbation.
D. Sharp pleuritic pain is not a typical finding in asthma. Pleuritic pain, which is sharp and worsened by breathing, is more commonly associated with conditions affecting the pleura, such as pneumonia or pleurisy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The sweat chloride test is considered the most definitive diagnostic test for cystic fibrosis. In this test, sweat is collected from the skin and analyzed for chloride content. Elevated levels of chloride in the sweat are indicative of cystic fibrosis. This test is highly sensitive and specific for diagnosing the condition.
B. Stool fat content analysis can help assess pancreatic function and malabsorption, which are common manifestations of cystic fibrosis. However, it is not considered the most definitive test for diagnosing cystic fibrosis. Elevated stool fat content can be suggestive of cystic fibrosis but is not specific to the condition.
C. Sputum culture may be performed to identify respiratory pathogens and guide antibiotic therapy in individuals with cystic fibrosis, but it is not the most definitive test for diagnosing the condition. It helps identify infections and monitor lung health but does not confirm the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis.
D. Pulmonary function tests are used to assess lung function and airflow, which can be affected in individuals with cystic fibrosis. While these tests provide valuable information about lung health, they are not the most definitive test for diagnosing cystic fibrosis. They are used for monitoring disease progression and response to treatment rather than confirming the diagnosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. This is the correct characteristic of decerebrate posturing. Decerebrate posturing is characterized by rigid extension and pronation (turning inward) of the arms and legs. It indicates severe neurological dysfunction and increased intracranial pressure, often involving damage to the brainstem.
A. This characteristic is not associated with decerebrate posturing. Adduction refers to movement toward the midline of the body, which is not typically observed in decerebrate posturing.
B. This description is not characteristic of decerebrate posturing. Decerebrate posturing involves extension, not flexion, of the upper extremities, along with extension and pronation (not adduction) of the lower extremities.
C. Flaccid paralysis refers to the absence of muscle tone and movement, which is not characteristic of decerebrate posturing. Decerebrate posturing involves increased muscle tone and abnormal, rigid extension of the arms and legs.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today