The nurse is assessing the client's respiratory system. Which method will result in the most accurate assessment of the client's respiratory rate?
The nurse should count the respirations in an unobtrusive manner without informing the client.
The nurse should inform the client that they are preparing to count the client's respirations.
The nurse should place a hand on the client's chest to count respirations.
The nurse should count when the respirations are audible.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Counting respirations unobtrusively helps ensure the client does not alter their breathing pattern due to the awareness of being observed. This method is generally preferred because it provides a more accurate assessment of the client's normal respiratory rate.
B. If the client is informed that their respirations are being counted, they may unconsciously alter their breathing pattern due to nervousness or the desire to appear normal. This could result in an inaccurate assessment of their true respiratory rate.
C. Placing a hand on the client's chest can be helpful in assessing the depth and evenness of respirations. However, this method might cause the client to become aware of the assessment and could lead to a change in their breathing pattern.
D. Counting respirations only when they are audible can be problematic. Audible respirations are not always present and may not accurately reflect the client’s full respiratory rate. This method may miss periods of quiet breathing and thus provide an incomplete assessment of the respiratory rate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Scoliosis is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. This can result in an uneven shoulder height and an asymmetrical rib cage when viewed from the front or back. The spine may curve to the side, creating a noticeable "S" or "C" shape.
B. Lordosis, also known as hyperlordosis, is an excessive inward curvature of the lower back (lumbar spine). This condition makes the buttocks appear more prominent and the abdomen to protrude. The pelvis tilts forward, creating a pronounced curve in the lower back.
C. Pigeon chest, or pectus carinatum, is a condition where the chest protrudes outward, giving it a "pigeon-like" appearance. The sternum sticks out, creating a noticeable bulge in the center of the chest.
D. Kyphosis is characterized by an excessive outward curvature of the upper spine (thoracic spine), resulting in a hunchbacked or rounded appearance of the upper back. The back may appear rounded or hunched when viewed from the side.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This position is useful for inspecting the overall shape and size of the breasts, but it may not be the best for detecting retractions.
B. This position can help identify changes in the breast tissue, but it may not be as effective as raising one arm overhead for detecting retractions.
C. Raising one arm over the head tenses the muscles in the breast and chest, which can make any retractions more visible. Retraction is often characterized by dimpling or pulling of the skin, which may be more noticeable when the breast tissue is taut.
D. This position can be helpful for examining the breasts for other abnormalities, but it may not be the best for detecting retractions.
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