When Assessing the Respiratory System of an Older Patient,which Finding

question 19

Multiple Choice

When assessing the respiratory system of an older patient,which finding indicates that the nurse should take immediate action?

• A) Weak cough effort
• B) Barrel-shaped chest
• C) Dry mucous membranes
• D) Bilateral crackles at lung bases

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Definitions:

Thoracotomy

A surgical procedure involving an incision into the chest wall to gain access to the thoracic organs, especially the heart and lungs.

Umbilical Hernia

A condition characterized by a bulging of the intestine through the abdominal muscles at the belly button, often visible when the baby cries or strains.

Ineffective Airway Clearance

A medical condition where the patient is unable to clear secretions or obstructions from the respiratory tract, leading to breathing difficulties.

Local Anesthetic

A type of medication used to temporarily block sensation in a specific area of the body during medical procedures.