A nurse on a Medical-Surgical unit is performing an assessment on a client who has COPD with emphysema. The client reports that he has a frequent wet cough and is occasionally short-of-breath. The nurse should anticipate which of the following assessment findings for this client?
Petechiae on the chest.
Increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest.
Oxygen saturation level 96%.
Respiratory alkalosis.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B. Increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest.
Choice A rationale:
Petechiae on the chest (Choice A) are tiny red or purple spots that appear on the skin due to small blood vessel breakage. They are not typically associated with COPD and emphysema. Petechiae are more often related to conditions like thrombocytopenia or certain infections, where blood clotting is impaired.
Choice B rationale:
Increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest, often referred to as "barrel chest," is a characteristic finding in clients with COPD and emphysema. This occurs due to the hyperinflation of the lungs and the loss of elasticity in the lung tissues, which causes the chest to become rounded and the ribs to be positioned more horizontally.
Choice C rationale:
An oxygen saturation level of 96% (Choice C) is within the normal range for oxygen saturation. However, while it's important for clients with COPD to maintain adequate oxygen levels, this value doesn't specifically correlate with the client's symptoms of a wet cough and occasional shortness of breath.
Choice D rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis (Choice D) involves an increase in blood pH due to decreased levels of carbon dioxide (hypocapnia) caused by hyperventilation. While respiratory alkalosis can occur in clients with COPD due to compensatory hyperventilation, it is not a direct assessment finding related to the client's symptoms of a wet cough and occasional shortness of breath.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This statement indicates a need for further teaching. Synthetic clothing and woolen socks can generate static electricity, which poses a risk around oxygen due to its flammable nature. The client should be advised to wear cotton clothing and avoid synthetic fabrics to prevent static-related accidents.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is correct. Oxygen supports combustion, so ensuring visitors don't smoke near the client is crucial. However, it does not indicate a need for further teaching.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is incorrect. The client cannot determine the oxygen flow rate by visual inspection of the flowmeter. The flow rate should be set based on the healthcare provider's instructions, and this information should have been covered in the teaching.
Choice D rationale:
This statement indicates the client understands the potential cognitive effects of oxygen therapy and when to seek medical assistance. It does not necessarily indicate a need for further teaching.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Instructing the client not to adjust the oxygen flow rate is crucial to ensure the appropriate amount of oxygen is delivered. Oxygen flow rates are prescribed by a healthcare provider based on the client's needs, and altering the flow rate without medical guidance can lead to inadequate oxygen delivery or oxygen toxicity.
Choice B rationale:
Weekly equipment checks are important, but this choice is not the most critical instruction. Clients should be instructed to check their oxygen equipment daily for proper functioning and to address any issues promptly. Waiting a whole week could lead to potential problems going unnoticed.
Choice C rationale:
Storing unused oxygen tanks horizontally is incorrect. Oxygen tanks should be stored upright to prevent leaks and ensure proper functioning. Storing them horizontally can cause valve damage and leakage, which could lead to hazards.
Choice D rationale:
Using wool blankets on the bed is not a suitable instruction for a client using oxygen therapy. Wool blankets can generate static electricity, which might pose a fire hazard in the presence of oxygen-enriched environments.
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