The nurse is performing a breast exam on a client. The client asks the nurse why the left breast is slightly larger than the right breast. Which of the following should be the appropriate response by the nurse?
A slight asymmetry in breast size can be expected
Asymmetry of breast size and shape is probably due to breastfeeding and is nothing to worry about.
A sudden uneven increase in breast size is normal in adults
Breasts should always be symmetric.
The Correct Answer is A
A. A slight asymmetry in breast size can be expected: This response is accurate. It acknowledges the natural variation in breast size that many women experience. It's common for one breast to be slightly larger or shaped differently than the other. It assures the client that this asymmetry is normal and not a cause for concern.
B. Asymmetry of breast size and shape is probably due to breastfeeding and is nothing to worry about: While breastfeeding can cause temporary changes in breast size and shape, not all cases of breast asymmetry are related to breastfeeding. This statement might not cover all situations, making it less accurate.
C. A sudden uneven increase in breast size is normal in adults: This statement is not accurate. Sudden changes in breast size should always be investigated, as they can indicate underlying health issues and may not be considered normal.
D. Breasts should always be symmetric: This statement is not accurate. Perfect symmetry in breast size and shape is rare. Most women have some degree of asymmetry, which is entirely normal. It's important to reassure the client that slight differences are common and not a cause for concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Bronchovesicular breath sounds and normal in that location:
Bronchovesicular breath sounds are medium-pitched sounds heard over the major bronchi and are usually equal on inspiration and expiration. They are typically heard in the 1st and 2nd intercostal spaces anteriorly and between the scapulae posteriorly. While they might be normal in certain locations, hearing them over peripheral lung fields might indicate an abnormality.
B. Normally auscultated over the trachea:
This statement doesn't specify a particular type of breath sound. Tracheal breath sounds are harsh and relatively high-pitched, heard directly over the trachea. They are normal over the trachea but are not normally heard in the lung periphery.
C. Vesicular breath sounds and normal in that location:
Vesicular breath sounds are low-pitched, soft sounds heard over most of the lungs during inspiration. They are longer on inspiration than expiration and are considered normal breath sounds heard in the peripheral lung fields. Hearing vesicular sounds in the posterior lower lobes is typical and indicates normal lung function.
D. Bronchial breath sounds and normal in that location:
Bronchial breath sounds are high-pitched and loud, heard primarily over the trachea and larynx. If heard in the peripheral lung fields, especially in the lower lobes, it can suggest an abnormality such as consolidation or compression of lung tissue.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Percussion of the posterior chest: Percussion helps assess the underlying structures of the chest but does not directly confirm symmetric chest expansion.
B. Inspection of the shape and configuration of the chest wall: Inspection is a crucial part of assessing chest symmetry. Any deformities, asymmetry, or abnormalities in the shape and configuration of the chest wall can be visually identified.
C. Placing the palmar surface of the fingers of one hand against the chest and having the client repeat "ninety-nine": This technique, known as tactile fremitus, involves feeling for vibrations or tremors while the client repeats a phrase. While it can provide information about underlying lung conditions, it's not primarily used to confirm symmetric chest expansion.
D. Placing hands sideways on the posterolateral chest wall with thumbs pointing together at the level of T9 or T10: This technique, known as chest expansion measurement, is used to assess symmetric chest expansion. Placing hands in this manner allows the nurse to feel for bilateral chest expansion during inspiration, ensuring that both sides of the chest expand symmetrically.
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