A nurse is collecting data on a client who has COPD. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Spoon nails
Peripheral edema
Pleural friction rub
Barrel chest
The Correct Answer is D
A. Spoon nails
Spoon nails, also known as koilonychia, refer to a concave or spoon-shaped deformity of the nails. This finding is associated with conditions such as iron deficiency anemia or certain systemic diseases, but it is not specifically associated with COPD.
B. Peripheral edema
Peripheral edema, or swelling of the extremities, is not a typical finding in COPD. It may occur in conditions such as heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease, but it is not directly related to COPD unless there are comorbid conditions contributing to fluid retention.
C. Pleural friction rub
Pleural friction rub refers to a creaking or grating sound heard on auscultation of the lungs, typically during inspiration and expiration. It occurs when the inflamed pleural surfaces rub against each other. While pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid in the pleural space) may occur as a complication of COPD, pleural friction rub is not a typical finding in uncomplicated COPD.
D. Barrel chest
Barrel chest is a common finding in clients with COPD. It refers to an increased anterior-posterior diameter of the chest, giving it a rounded appearance similar to that of a barrel. This occurs due to hyperinflation of the lungs, which is characteristic of COPD, particularly in advanced stages. The hyperinflation leads to chronic air trapping and increased residual volume in the lungs, causing the chest to become enlarged and rounded.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Prone with arms raised over the head.
This position involves lying face down with the arms raised over the head. It is not appropriate for thoracentesis because it does not provide easy access to the thoracic cavity, and it may compress the chest, making it difficult for the client to breathe comfortably during the procedure.
B. Sitting, leaning forward over the bedside table.
This is the correct choice. For thoracentesis, the client should be positioned sitting upright and leaning forward over the bedside table or supported by pillows. This position allows better access to the thoracic cavity and facilitates the removal of pleural fluid. Leaning forward also helps to open up the intercostal spaces, making it easier for the healthcare provider to insert the needle into the appropriate space between the ribs.
C. High Fowler's position.
The High Fowler's position involves the client sitting upright with the head of the bed elevated at a 90-degree angle. While this position may be used for other respiratory procedures or for comfort, it is not the optimal position for thoracentesis. It does not provide the same degree of access to the thoracic cavity as the sitting position with forward leaning.
D. Side-lying with knees drawn up to the chest.
This position involves lying on one side with the knees drawn up to the chest. It is not appropriate for thoracentesis because it does not provide access to the thoracic cavity, and it may obstruct the procedure. Additionally, this position may not be comfortable for the client during the procedure.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Constipation
Constipation is not typically associated with obstructive sleep apnea. However, sleep disturbances and certain medications used to manage OSA may indirectly contribute to constipation in some cases.
B. Nausea
Nausea is not a common symptom of obstructive sleep apnea. While sleep disturbances may affect gastrointestinal function in some individuals, nausea is not a typical manifestation of OSA.
C. Headache
One of the common findings associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is headache. This occurs due to the repeated episodes of apnea (cessation of breathing) during sleep, which leads to intermittent hypoxia (low oxygen levels) and subsequent cerebral vasodilation. The vasodilation can trigger headaches, often described as morning headaches, upon waking up. These headaches are typically frontal and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue and irritability.
D. Hypotension
Hypotension (low blood pressure) is not a typical finding in obstructive sleep apnea. In fact, individuals with OSA are more likely to have hypertension (high blood pressure) due to the effects of repeated apnea episodes on the cardiovascular system, such as increased sympathetic activity and arterial stiffness.

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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
