A nurse is performing an examination of a client's anterior thorax. The nurse should recall that the trachea bifurcates anteriorly at which location?

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) Frontal sinusitis:
This is incorrect. Frontal sinusitis typically causes pain and tenderness in the forehead area, above the eyes, and along the brow ridge. While frontal sinusitis can lead to headaches and facial pain, it generally does not cause pain in the teeth, cheeks, or nasal discharge as specifically as maxillary sinusitis. Pain in the cheeks and upper teeth, along with purulent nasal discharge, is more characteristic of maxillary sinus involvement.

B) Maxillary sinusitis:
This is the correct answer. Maxillary sinusitis is the inflammation or infection of the maxillary sinuses, which are located behind the cheeks. Common symptoms include throbbing pain in the cheeks, teeth, and upper jaw, swollen turbinates (the structures inside the nose that help with airflow and filtering), and purulent nasal discharge. These symptoms match the description provided, making maxillary sinusitis the most likely diagnosis.

C) Nasal fracture:
This is incorrect. A nasal fracture typically presents with pain, swelling, bruising, and sometimes deformity of the nose, often accompanied by epistaxis (nosebleeds). While a nasal fracture can cause pain, it would not typically cause the throbbing pain in the face, teeth, and cheeks, nor would it be associated with swollen turbinates and purulent nasal discharge as seen in sinusitis.

D) Nasal polyps:
This is incorrect. Nasal polyps are non-cancerous growths that form in the nasal passages or sinuses due to chronic inflammation. They often cause nasal obstruction, reduced sense of smell, or frequent sinus infections. However, they do not typically cause the throbbing facial pain, particularly in the teeth and cheeks, that is characteristic of maxillary sinusitis. They also do not cause the purulent discharge seen in sinus infections.