When performing a respiratory assessment, what is an expected finding when palpating the chest of a healthy adult?
Symmetrical chest expansion
Hyperresonance upon percussion
Increased tactile fremitus
Dullness to percussion
The Correct Answer is A
A. Symmetrical chest expansion: In a healthy adult, the thoracic cage should move outward equally on both sides during deep inspiration. This indicates that the lungs are inflating uniformly and the pleura are intact without obstruction or collapse. Symmetrical movement is a hallmark of normal respiratory mechanics and musculoskeletal function.
B. Hyperresonance upon percussion: Hyperresonance is an abnormal finding characterized by a lower-pitched, booming sound produced over hyperinflated lung tissue. It is typical in conditions such as emphysema or pneumothorax where there is an excess of air relative to tissue. Normal lung tissue should produce a resonant sound during percussion.
C. Increased tactile fremitus: Tactile fremitus is the palpable vibration transmitted through the bronchopulmonary system to the chest wall. Increased vibrations usually occur when lung tissue becomes consolidated, as seen in pneumonia, which facilitates sound conduction. Healthy, air-filled lungs provide a moderate, equal vibration that is not pathologically increased.
D. Dullness to percussion: Dullness is an abnormal percussion note over the lungs that suggests an increase in tissue density or the presence of fluid. It is commonly found in patients with pleural effusion, pulmonary edema, or solid tumors. Healthy lung tissue is filled with air and should remain resonant rather than dull.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. High-dose glucocorticoids:These are potent anti-inflammatory pharmacological agents used to treat acute exacerbations of autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. They are not classified as nonpharmacological techniques and carry significant long-term risks like osteoporosis and hyperglycemia. Their use is strictly biochemical rather than behavioral or physical.
B. Immediate surgical intervention:Surgery is an invasive medical procedure intended to correct anatomical defects or pathological lesions. It is the antithesis of nonpharmacological therapy and is often the last resort for chronic pain management. It involves significant physiological stress and potential postoperative complications.
C. IV fluids:Intravenous hydration is a medical intervention used to correct electrolyte imbalances or maintain hemodynamic stability. It has no therapeutic role in the modulation of chronic nociceptive or neuropathic pain pathways. It is a physiological support measure rather than a pain management modality.
D. Mindfulness meditation:This cognitive technique encourages non-judgmental awareness of the present moment, which modulates the emotional response to persistent pain. It can reduce the activation of the amygdala and improve the patient's functional coping mechanisms. It is a validated evidence-based nonpharmacological approach for chronic pain.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Administer antiviral medication within the first 48 hours of symptom onset:Neuraminidase inhibitors like oseltamivir are most effective when started early to inhibit viral replication and reduce the duration of symptoms. This intervention directly targets the pathogen and can prevent severe complications. Timely administration is a hallmark of evidence-based influenza management.
B. Offer decongestants to suppress cough and reduce fever:Decongestants primarily treat nasal congestion and do not affect viral replication or the underlying disease process. While they may provide temporary symptomatic relief, they are not a priority over antiviral therapy. They also do not possess antipyretic properties for fever reduction.
C. Advise the client to take antihistamines for symptom relief:Antihistamines are indicated for allergic reactions and have little therapeutic value in the management of viral influenza. They may cause unwanted side effects like sedation or drying of the respiratory mucosa. Their use in influenza is generally not supported by clinical guidelines.
D. Prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections:Influenza is a viral illness, and antibiotics have no effect on viruses. Prescribing them prophylactically is an inappropriate use of medication that contributes to antibiotic resistance. They are only indicated if a secondary bacterial pneumonia is clinically confirmed.
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