The nurse is observing the respiratory effort of a client, and notes that the client's intercostal spaces are retracting on inspiration. The nurse will assess the client for the presence of which condition(s)? Select All That Apply
Thoracic muscle tenderness
Barrel Chest
Pectus excavatum
Atelectasis
Obstruction
Correct Answer : D,E
A. Thoracic muscle tenderness is not directly associated with intercostal retraction. Muscle tenderness may occur due to overuse or strain but does not cause the retraction of the intercostal spaces. It is more related to musculoskeletal issues rather than respiratory conditions.
B. Barrel chest refers to an increased anterior-posterior chest diameter, often seen in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema. While barrel chest can indicate chronic lung conditions that might cause respiratory distress, it does not directly cause intercostal retraction.
C. Pectus excavatum, or "funnel chest," is a congenital deformity where the sternum is depressed inward, giving the chest a sunken appearance. However, pectus excavatum itself does not directly cause retractions but can be associated with increased respiratory effort.
D. Atelectasis refers to the collapse of part or all of a lung, leading to decreased lung volume. This condition often results in increased respiratory effort and can be associated with intercostal retractions as the body struggles to expand the collapsed lung areas and improve ventilation.
E. Obstruction of the airways, such as from a foreign body, mucus plug, or severe bronchoconstriction, can lead to increased respiratory effort as the client tries to overcome the obstruction. This increased effort often results in visible signs of respiratory distress, including intercostal retraction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Palpable lymph nodes are assessed through palpation, not inspection. The nurse would use their hands to feel for lymph nodes in areas such as the axilla (armpit) and supraclavicular regions. This is a tactile examination and therefore not documented as part of the inspection.
B. Symmetry refers to the visual observation of whether the breasts are equal in size and shape. During the inspection phase, the nurse notes whether the breasts appear symmetrical or if there are any visible asymmetries.
C. Breast sensitivity is typically assessed through palpation or the client’s report of symptoms rather than through inspection alone. Sensitivity involves asking the client about their experience of pain or discomfort in the breasts, which cannot be observed visually.
D. Tenderness is assessed through palpation, where the nurse would gently press on the breast tissue to determine if the client experiences pain. Tenderness is not a visual finding and therefore is not documented during the inspection phase.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The inguinal nodes are located in the groin area. They are not typically assessed when evaluating breast lymph nodes. Instead, these nodes are relevant for assessing the lymphatic drainage of the lower extremities and pelvic region, not the breast.
B. The subclavicular nodes are located just below the clavicle (collarbone). These nodes are part of the lymphatic drainage system for the breast and are important to assess during a breast examination, especially in the context of breast cancer or other breast conditions. Palpating the subclavicular lymph nodes helps evaluate whether cancer has spread beyond the breast tissue.
C. The median lymphatic vessel is not a recognized term in standard lymphatic anatomy. Lymphatic vessels are not typically palpated; rather, lymph nodes are assessed. The median term might refer to the midline of the body but does not pertain to a specific lymph node group relevant to breast assessment.
D. The ulnar lymphatic vessels are related to the lymphatic drainage of the arm, specifically along the ulnar aspect (inner side) of the forearm. These are not relevant to the breast lymph nodes. Assessment of the breast involves checking nodes in the axillary, supraclavicular, and subclavicular regions, not the ulnar lymphatic vessels.
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