A nurse is evaluating and assessing a client with a diagnosis of chronic emphysema. The client is receiving oxygen therapy at a flow rate of 5 L/min via nasal cannula. Which findings concern the nurse immediately?

The client sitting up and leaning over the bedside table,

Fine bilateral basilar crackles.

A respiratory rate of 9 breaths/min.

A large barrel chest.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   This position is often seen in clients with chronic respiratory conditions like emphysema. It is called the tripod position and can help the client breathe more easily by expanding the chest and reducing the work of breathing. While this position indicates the client is experiencing difficulty breathing, it is not an immediate emergency but rather a sign of their chronic respiratory condition.

B.   Fine crackles (or rales) are abnormal lung sounds that can indicate fluid in the alveoli. In emphysema, crackles are not typical and may suggest a complication such as pulmonary edema or infection.
However, if these crackles are not severe and the client’s overall condition is stable, it may not be the
most urgent issue compared to other findings.
C.   A respiratory rate of 9 breaths per minute is considered bradypnea, which is significantly lower than the normal range (12-20 breaths/min). For a client with chronic emphysema on oxygen therapy, bradypnea is a concerning finding because it indicates inadequate respiratory drive and potential respiratory depression.
D.   A barrel chest is a common physical finding in clients with chronic emphysema due to chronic air trapping and lung overexpansion. It reflects long-standing changes in the chest structure due to the disease. While it is a notable finding, it is a chronic manifestation of emphysema and not an immediate concern in the context of acute clinical status.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Although this client has an arm sling, which could potentially limit movement and cause some localized pressure, they are generally at a lower risk for widespread skin breakdown compared to older adults. Their younger age and lack of other risk factors make them less susceptible overall.
B. Older adults have thinner skin and decreased elasticity, making them more susceptible to pressure ulcers and skin breakdown. Frequent exposure to moisture from urine or feces can lead to skin irritation and breakdown, especially in areas where skin is already compromised.
C. While an elderly individual with an ankle fracture is at risk for skin breakdown, especially if immobilized and in a cast, this risk is somewhat less immediate compared to someone with incontinence.
D. This client is recovering from surgery, which could include temporary changes in mobility or activity levels. However, they are younger and do not have the additional complicating factors like incontinence or dementia. While there is some risk of skin issues post-surgery, it is not as high as the risk posed by incontinence and cognitive impairment in an elderly client.

A. Atelectasis B. Pulmonary obstruction C. Pneumonia D. Bronchitis

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Atelectasis refers to the collapse or incomplete expansion of a lung or a portion of a lung. It can cause decreased breath sounds and dullness upon percussion, but it is less likely to present with a fever as high as 102.1°F. However, atelectasis can occur secondary to an obstructive pneumonia, making the distinction important in clinical settings.
B. Pulmonary obstruction, such as from an obstruction of the airway or bronchus, might cause symptoms like difficulty breathing and decreased oxygen saturation. However, it would less commonly present with fever and localized crackles.
C. Pneumonia often presents with symptoms such as fever (elevated temperature of 102.1°F), increased respiratory rate (30 breaths per minute), decreased oxygen saturation (90% on room air), and abnormal lung findings. The decreased expansion and dullness over the right lung, along with crackles (rales) heard in the right lower lobe, are indicative of fluid accumulation and inflammation in the lung, which are characteristic of pneumonia.
D. Acute bronchitis involves inflammation of the bronchi and is often associated with a cough, sputum production, and sometimes fever. However, it typically presents with a productive cough and wheezing rather than localized dullness and crackles confined to one lobe.

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A nurse is evaluating and assessing a client with a diagnosis of chronic emphysema. The client is receiving oxygen therapy at a flow rate of 5 L/min via nasal cannula. Which findings concern the nurse immediately?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for 4 clients. Which client is at highest risk for skin breakdown?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Upon assessment, the nurse noted a temperature of 102.1, respirations of 30 breaths per minute, oxygen saturation of 90% on room air, decreased expansion and dullness over the right lung, and crackles heard on the right lower lobe. Which condition should the nurse suspect?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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