The nurse should anticipate difficulty locating the point of maximal impulse (PMI) in which client? Reference Range: Body mass index (BMI) Normal or healthy weight (18.5 kg/m2 to 24.9 kg/m2)]
A 2-year-old who is demonstrating diaphragmatic breathing.
A 45-year-old long distance runner with a body mass index (BMI) of 18 kg/m2.
A 75-year-old with a pneumothorax and a chest tube.
A 54-year-old who is 5 feet (152.4 cm) tall and weighs 300 pounds (136.1 kg).
The Correct Answer is D
A) A 2-year-old who is demonstrating diaphragmatic breathing:
In young children, especially infants and toddlers, the PMI is typically easier to locate due to their smaller size and thinner chest wall. Diaphragmatic breathing, which is normal in infants and toddlers, does not necessarily interfere with locating the PMI.
B) A 45-year-old long distance runner with a body mass index (BMI) of 18 kg/m2:
A BMI within the normal range does not necessarily affect the ability to locate the PMI. Additionally, physical fitness, such as being a long-distance runner, may contribute to better cardiovascular health and clearer identification of the PMI.
C) A 75-year-old with a pneumothorax and a chest tube:
In clients with a pneumothorax and a chest tube, the presence of medical devices and underlying respiratory conditions may affect the ability to locate the PMI. However, the primary challenge here would likely be due to the presence of the chest tube rather than the client's age alone.
D) A 54-year-old who is 5 feet (152.4 cm) tall and weighs 300 pounds (136.1 kg):
In individuals who are significantly overweight or obese, locating the PMI may be challenging due to increased chest wall thickness and adipose tissue. The increased depth of tissue can make palpating the PMI more difficult, leading to anticipated difficulty in locating it accurately.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Looking at the client from the side, observe the size and shape of the chest wall:
This action is more related to inspecting the physical appearance and symmetry of the chest wall but does not assess tactile fremitus.
B) Use the fingertips to compress tissue over the lungs for evidence of a crackling sensation:
This action may be more relevant for assessing subcutaneous emphysema (crepitus) but is not the correct method for assessing tactile fremitus.
C) Place the palm of the hand on the chest wall to feel vibrations while the client speaks:
This is the correct action to assess tactile fremitus. By placing the palm of the hand on various areas of the chest wall while the client repeats a phrase such as "ninety-nine," the nurse can feel for vibrations. Increased tactile fremitus can indicate consolidation, as seen in pneumonia.
D) Use a stethoscope to listen to and compare breath sounds anteriorly and posteriorly:
This action involves auscultation, which is important for assessing breath sounds but does not assess tactile fremitus directly.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Number of blood clots expelled with each stool:
While the number of blood clots expelled with each stool may be relevant in assessing the severity of bleeding, it does not provide as much information about the potential underlying causes of bleeding as documenting the color characteristics of the stool does. Therefore, although it may be noted, it is not the most crucial aspect to document initially.
B. Evidence of internal hemorrhoids:
Documenting evidence of internal hemorrhoids is important in assessing rectal bleeding, but it is not as fundamental as documenting the color characteristics of the stool. Internal hemorrhoids can be one potential cause of rectal bleeding, but other more serious conditions may also cause bleeding, so a comprehensive assessment of the stool is necessary.
C. Unique odor noted with gastrointestinal bleeding:
While gastrointestinal bleeding may have a distinct odor, documenting this alone does not provide as much diagnostic information as describing the color characteristics of the stool. Documenting odor may be important in some cases, but it is not as critical as documenting the color of the stool, which can help identify potential causes of bleeding.
D. Color characteristics of each stool:
When evaluating rectal bleeding, documenting the color characteristics of each stool is crucial. Different colors of stool can indicate various underlying causes of bleeding. Bright red blood typically suggests lower gastrointestinal bleeding, while darker, tarry stools (melena) may indicate bleeding higher in the gastrointestinal tract. Describing the color, consistency, and presence of any abnormal substances in the stool helps healthcare providers assess the severity and potential causes of the bleeding.
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