Free Medical Surgical Certification Practice Questions Related

Review Free Medical Surgical Certification Practice Questions related questions and content

A client with emphysema is being assessed by a nurse. Which clinical manifestation should the nurse expect?

  • A. Decreased chest expansion
  • B. Cyanosis
  • C. Pursed-lip breathing
  • D. Bradypnea
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pursed-lip breathing. In emphysema, air becomes trapped in the lungs due to damaged air sacs, making it difficult to exhale. Pursed-lip breathing helps to prolong exhalation, preventing air trapping. Decreased chest expansion (A) is more indicative of conditions like pleural effusion. Cyanosis (B) is a sign of inadequate oxygenation, which is not a primary manifestation of emphysema. Bradypnea (D) refers to slow breathing rate, which is not typically associated with emphysema. Pursed-lip breathing is a characteristic and effective coping mechanism seen in clients with emphysema.