The nurse examines a client's auditory canal and tympanic membrane with an otoscope. The nurse recognizes that which of the following is considered an abnormal finding?

A shiny, pearly white color tympanic membrane

The presence of cerumen

The presence of a cone of light

A yellow or amber color to the tympanic membrane.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. A shiny, pearly white color tympanic membrane: This is a normal finding. A healthy tympanic membrane often appears shiny and pearly white.

B. The presence of cerumen: This is a normal finding. Cerumen, or earwax, is a natural substance that helps protect the ear canal.

C. The presence of a cone of light: This is a normal finding. The cone of light is a reflection of the otoscope light on the tympanic membrane and is a normal variation.

D. A yellow or amber color to the tympanic membrane: This is considered an abnormal finding. A yellow or amber coloration of the tympanic membrane can indicate the presence of fluid or infection behind the eardrum, which may be a sign of otitis media or other ear conditions.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. When bronchial breath sounds are auscultated in the trachea.

Auscultating bronchial breath sounds in the trachea is a normal finding, as the trachea is close to the upper airway, and this is where bronchial sounds are normally heard. However, if these sounds are heard in the peripheral lung fields, it can indicate an abnormal condition.

B. When the client is experiencing excessive sneezing from a tree pollen allergy.

Excessive sneezing due to allergies would not typically result in increased breath sounds. Allergies may cause nasal congestion, but they don't directly lead to increased breath sounds.

C. When the client is resting in bed and not experiencing respiratory issues.

If a client is at rest and not experiencing any respiratory issues, breath sounds should typically be normal. There would be no reason to expect increased breath sounds in this scenario.

D. When the bronchial tree is obstructed by secretions.

Increased breath sounds, such as wheezing or rhonchi, can be auscultated when there is an obstruction in the bronchial tree due to secretions, narrowing of the airways, or other causes. These sounds are typically abnormal and indicate an issue with air movement through the airways.

A. Clear and equal breath sounds bilaterally B. Oxygen saturation of 98% on room air C. Cough producing clear, thin sputum D. Visible use of accessory muscles during inhalation

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Clear and equal breath sounds bilaterally

Explanation: Clear and equal breath sounds bilaterally indicate normal lung sounds, suggesting proper air exchange in both lungs. This is a normal finding and does not require immediate reporting.

B. Oxygen saturation of 98% on room air

Explanation: An oxygen saturation level of 98% on room air indicates adequate oxygenation of the blood. This is a normal and healthy oxygen saturation level and does not require immediate reporting.

C. Cough producing clear, thin sputum

Explanation: A cough producing clear, thin sputum is indicative of a non-infected or non-inflammatory condition in the respiratory system. Clear and thin sputum is often normal, especially in the absence of other symptoms. It does not require immediate reporting unless the client has other concerning symptoms.

D. Visible use of accessory muscles during inhalation

Explanation: Visible use of accessory muscles, such as neck or intercostal muscles, during inhalation suggests that the client is working hard to breathe. This could indicate respiratory distress, potentially due to conditions like asthma, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), or other severe lung problems. It's a concerning sign and should be reported to the healthcare practitioner promptly for further evaluation and intervention.

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The nurse examines a client's auditory canal and tympanic membrane with an otoscope. The nurse recognizes that which of the following is considered an abnormal finding?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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