In the context of asthma exacerbation, what does a 'silent chest' indicate?
A complete absence of wheezing and breath sounds due to severe airway obstruction
Reduced pulmonary congestion leading to clearer breath sounds
An improvement in asthma symptoms due to effective bronchodilation
A temporary condition that resolves without treatment
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. A 'silent chest' is a medical emergency in asthma. It occurs when severe airway obstruction prevents air movement, resulting in little or no audible wheezing or breath sounds. This indicates critical respiratory distress and requires immediate intervention.
B. Reduced pulmonary congestion does not cause a silent chest; asthma involves bronchospasm, not fluid overload.
C. Improvement due to bronchodilation would produce clearer breath sounds but not a complete absence of sound.
D. A temporary condition that resolves without treatment is incorrect; a silent chest is life-threatening and will not resolve without immediate medical intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Obtaining a sputum culture is essential to identify the causative pathogen and guide appropriate antibiotic or antifungal therapy in a client with recurring pneumonia and immunocompromised status.
B. Positioning the head of the bed at 10 degrees is insufficient; a semi- to high-Fowler’s position (30–90 degrees) is recommended to promote lung expansion and reduce aspiration risk.
C. Coughing and deep breathing every 8 hr is inadequate; these interventions should be performed every 1–2 hr while awake to effectively mobilize secretions.
D. Encouraging only 1500 mL/day of fluids may be insufficient; clients with pneumonia generally require adequate hydration to help thin secretions, unless restricted for another medical reason.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Isosorbide dinitrate is a nitrate used to reduce preload and manage heart failure symptoms; it is safe for clients with asthma.
B. Fluticasone is an inhaled corticosteroid used to manage asthma and does not worsen heart failure.
C. Captopril is an ACE inhibitor that treats heart failure and is safe for clients with asthma.
D. Carvedilol is a non-selective beta-blocker. Non-selective beta-blockers can exacerbate asthma by causing bronchoconstriction. In clients with asthma, beta-blocker therapy should be clarified, and cardioselective options are generally preferred.
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