Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse report to the practitioner? (Select all that apply)
Use of accessory muscles
Nail bed greater than 160 degrees
Circumoral cyanosis
Pursed lip breathing
Anteroposterior-to-transverse diameter of 1:1
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D,E
A. Use of accessory muscles
Explanation: Using accessory muscles during breathing indicates increased effort to breathe, which can be a sign of respiratory distress. It suggests that the client is having difficulty breathing and is using additional muscles to aid in the process. This finding should be reported to the practitioner for further evaluation.
B. Nail bed greater than 160 degrees
Explanation: A nail bed angle greater than 160 degrees, also known as clubbing, is an abnormal finding and can be associated with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. It may indicate insufficient oxygenation and should be reported to the practitioner for evaluation.
C. Circumoral cyanosis
Explanation: Circumoral cyanosis, which is a bluish discoloration around the mouth, indicates inadequate oxygenation. It can be a sign of respiratory or cardiac problems and should be reported to the practitioner for further assessment and intervention.
D. Pursed lip breathing
Explanation: Pursed lip breathing is a technique often used by individuals with respiratory difficulties to improve oxygen exchange. However, if it's observed in a person who does not normally use this technique, it could indicate respiratory distress and should be reported to the practitioner for evaluation.
E. Anteroposterior-to-transverse diameter of 1:1
Explanation: An anteroposterior-to-transverse diameter of 1:1 (also known as barrel chest) is an abnormal finding often associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It suggests overinflation of the lungs and can impair effective breathing. This finding should be reported to the practitioner for further evaluation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Checks the instrument gauge to ensure the reading starts at zero:
This action is correct. Before taking a blood pressure reading, it's essential to ensure that the instrument's gauge starts at zero. This ensures accurate measurement as the reading reflects the pressure above zero.
B. Centers the cuff bladder over the client's brachial artery:
This action is correct. Proper placement of the blood pressure cuff over the brachial artery is crucial for accurate readings. Centering the cuff ensures that the artery is correctly compressed for measurement.
C. Places the client's arm above the level of the client's heart:
This action is incorrect. Placing the arm above heart level can result in a falsely low blood pressure reading. The arm should be at the same level as the heart to obtain an accurate measurement.
D. Wraps the blood pressure cuff around the client's arm using firm pressure:
This action is correct, but it's important to note that while the cuff should be snug, it should not be too tight or too loose. Wrapping the cuff with firm, even pressure ensures proper compression of the artery for an accurate measurement.
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.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.