An admitting nurse is assessing a client with COPD. The nurse auscultates diminished breath sounds. These findings indicated the nurse to monitor the client for what?
Kyphosis and clubbing of the fingers
Dyspnea and hypoxemia
Sepsis and pneumothorax
Bradypnea and pursed-lip breathing
The Correct Answer is C
A. Kyphosis and clubbing of the fingers:
Kyphosis refers to an excessive forward curvature of the spine, which is not directly related to diminished breath sounds. Clubbing of the fingers is often associated with chronic respiratory conditions, but it is not directly linked to the finding of diminished breath sounds.
B. Dyspnea and hypoxemia:
Dyspnea (shortness of breath) and hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood) are common symptoms in COPD, but diminished breath sounds may indicate an additional concern, such as pneumothorax or other complications.
C. Sepsis and pneumothorax:
Diminished breath sounds can be a sign of pneumothorax, a condition where air accumulates in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. Sepsis is a risk in clients with COPD due to the potential for respiratory infections. Monitoring for these complications is crucial.

D. Bradypnea and pursed-lip breathing:
Bradypnea (slow breathing) and pursed-lip breathing are coping mechanisms that individuals with COPD may use to manage their breathing difficulties. While they are relevant in the context of COPD, they are not directly associated with the finding of diminished breath sounds.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. “I will need to stop smoking because the nicotine causes less blood to flow to my hands and feet.”
Explanation: This statement reflects an understanding of the association between smoking and reduced blood flow, particularly due to nicotine's vasoconstrictive effects.
B. “The older I get the higher my risk for peripheral arterial disease gets.”
Explanation: While age is a non-modifiable risk factor for PAD, it is not a statement indicating a change in behavior to address risk factors. It is correct information but doesn't involve a proactive approach to risk reduction.
C. “Since my family is from Italy, I have a higher risk of developing peripheral arterial disease.”
Explanation: Family history is a non-modifiable risk factor, and the statement correctly identifies this risk factor. However, it doesn't address modifiable factors or actions to reduce risk.
D. “I will need to increase the amount of green leafy vegetables I eat to lower my cholesterol levels.”
Explanation: This statement demonstrates an understanding of a dietary modification to lower cholesterol levels, which is a positive step toward reducing a modifiable risk factor for PAD.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Administer antibiotics
Administering antibiotics is not a direct intervention for preventing atelectasis. Antibiotics are typically prescribed to treat bacterial infections, and atelectasis is more related to lung collapse or incomplete lung expansion.
B. Encourage increased oral fluid intake
Adequate hydration is important for maintaining the moisture of respiratory secretions. This helps prevent mucus from becoming thick and sticky, making it easier for the patient to cough and clear the airways.
C. Early mobilization after surgery
Early mobilization, including activities such as getting out of bed and walking, helps improve lung expansion. It promotes better ventilation and prevents areas of the lungs from collapsing, reducing the risk of atelectasis.
D. Frequent turning of the patient
Turning the patient regularly is crucial for preventing pooling of respiratory secretions in dependent areas of the lungs. By changing the patient's position, nurses can facilitate drainage and ventilation throughout the lungs, minimizing the risk of atelectasis.
E. Use of incentive spirometry
Incentive spirometry is a breathing exercise device that encourages the patient to take slow, deep breaths. This helps expand the lungs and prevents atelectasis by maintaining lung volume and promoting alveolar recruitment.
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