jarvis physical examination and health assessment 9th edition test bank Related

Review jarvis physical examination and health assessment 9th edition test bank related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of asthma. The nurse should monitor for which of the following signs of an asthma exacerbation?

  • A. Decreased work of breathing.
  • B. Increased wheezing and shortness of breath.
  • C. Improved oxygen saturation.
  • D. Decreased sputum production.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increased wheezing and shortness of breath. During an asthma exacerbation, bronchial airways become inflamed and narrowed, leading to increased wheezing and shortness of breath. This is a classic sign of worsening asthma. Other choices are incorrect because: A) Decreased work of breathing is not expected in an asthma exacerbation as the patient usually struggles to breathe. C) Improved oxygen saturation is unlikely as airway obstruction can lead to decreased oxygen levels. D) Decreased sputum production is not a typical sign of asthma exacerbation; in fact, increased sputum production may occur due to airway inflammation.