Which of these is an unexpected finding for a neurological system assessment?

Choice A reason: Clear bilateral lung sounds are a normal respiratory finding, indicating unobstructed airways and effective gas exchange. Abnormal sounds like wheezing or crackles would suggest pathology, but this choice reflects expected lung function, not an unexpected assessment outcome.

Choice B reason: Absence of cough is a normal finding, suggesting no airway irritation or obstruction. Coughing may indicate infection or fluid accumulation, but its absence aligns with healthy respiratory status, making this a typical and expected assessment result.

Choice C reason: Using an incentive spirometer post-surgery is an expected finding, as it promotes lung expansion and prevents atelectasis. It indicates patient compliance with respiratory therapy, a standard post-operative intervention, not an abnormal or unexpected respiratory assessment outcome.

Choice D reason: An oxygen saturation of 90% on 2 liters of oxygen via nasal cannula is unexpected, as normal saturation should be 95-100%. This suggests hypoxemia, potentially from lung pathology or inadequate oxygen delivery, warranting further investigation, making it the correct choice.

Choice A reason: Palpating tender areas first may cause patient discomfort and guarding, reducing assessment accuracy. Palpation uses the palmar side or finger pads, starting with non-tender areas. Assuming this risks poor technique, potentially missing subtle findings like masses or edema, critical for comprehensive physical assessment in clinical practice.

Choice B reason: Palpation uses the palmar side of the hands or finger pads for light or deep touch to assess texture, tenderness, or masses. This technique ensures sensitivity and accuracy, detecting abnormalities like organ enlargement or fluid accumulation. Proper palpation is essential for thorough physical exams, guiding diagnosis and care planning effectively.

Choice C reason: Short, quick taps define percussion, not palpation, which involves sustained touch to assess underlying structures. Confusing these techniques risks incorrect assessment, missing findings like organ size or tenderness. Palpation’s distinct method using finger pads ensures accurate detection, critical for identifying abnormalities in physical examinations.

Choice D reason: Using a stethoscope is for auscultation, not palpation, which relies on manual touch with finger pads or palms. Assuming stethoscope use misaligns with palpation’s purpose, risking incomplete assessment of tactile findings like masses or swelling, essential for accurate diagnosis and effective patient care planning.