ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam related questions and content

A client with a long history of smoking is being assessed by a nurse. Which finding is a common complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

  • A. Decreased anteroposterior chest diameter
  • B. Increased breath sounds
  • C. Prolonged expiratory phase
  • D. Increased chest expansion
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale:
1. COPD is characterized by airway obstruction, leading to difficulty exhaling.
2. Prolonged expiratory phase is a common finding due to air trapping.
3. This leads to hyperinflation and increased residual volume.
4. Decreased anteroposterior chest diameter is not typical in COPD.
5. Increased breath sounds and chest expansion are not common in COPD.
In summary, choice C is correct because it directly relates to the pathophysiology of COPD, while the other choices are not consistent with the condition.