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:

Vertebra Prominens

The most prominent vertebra, usually the seventh cervical vertebra, easily felt through the skin at the base of the neck.

Manubrium

The upper portion of the sternum, connecting to the clavicles and the first pair of ribs.

Thoracic Expansion

The ability of the chest to expand and contract during breathing, often measured to assess respiratory health.

Respiratory System

The biological system consisting of specific organs and structures used for gas exchange in animals and plants, including the lungs in humans.