ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam related questions and content

A healthcare professional is assessing a client who is recovering from a lung biopsy. Which assessment finding requires immediate action?

  • A. Increased temperature
  • B. Absent breath sounds
  • C. Productive cough
  • D. Incisional discomfort
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Absent breath sounds. This finding requires immediate action because it could indicate a pneumothorax, which is a potentially life-threatening complication following a lung biopsy. Absent breath sounds suggest air trapped in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent respiratory distress.

A: Increased temperature is concerning but may indicate infection, which would require monitoring and possibly treatment, but it is not as urgent as addressing a potential pneumothorax.

C: Productive cough is common post-lung biopsy and may be managed symptomatically. It does not typically require immediate action.

D: Incisional discomfort is expected after a biopsy and can be managed with pain medication. It does not indicate a critical issue requiring immediate intervention.