Multiple Choice Questions for Respiratory System Related

Review Multiple Choice Questions for Respiratory System related questions and content

A nurse assesses clients on the medical-surgical unit. Which client is at greatest risk for development of obstructive sleep apnea?

  • A. A 26-year-old woman who is 8 months pregnant.
  • B. A 42-year-old man with gastroesophageal reflux disease.
  • C. A 55-year-old woman who is 50 lb (23 kg) overweight.
  • D. A 73-year-old man with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, a 55-year-old woman who is 50 lb overweight. Obesity is a major risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) due to excess fat in the neck area that can obstruct the airway during sleep. This increases the likelihood of experiencing breathing pauses. Pregnancy (choice A) may cause temporary OSA due to hormonal changes, but it's not the greatest risk factor among the options provided. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (choice B) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (choice D) are associated with sleep disturbances, but they are not as directly linked to OSA as obesity.