Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Test Bank - Physical Assessment Related

Review Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Test Bank - Physical Assessment related questions and content

During a physical assessment the nurse observes a patient experiencing a sudden audible expulsion of air from the lungs. What should the nurse document that the patient is experiencing?

  • A. Dyspnea
  • B. Cyanosis
  • C. Coughing
  • D. Ecchymosis
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Coughing is a sudden audible expulsion of air from the lungs. Coughing is an essential protective response that serves to clear the lungs, bronchi, or trachea of irritants and secretions or to prevent aspiration of foreign material into the lungs. It is a common sign of diseases of the larynx, bronchi, and lungs.