ATI Detailed Answer Key Medical Surgical Related

Review ATI Detailed Answer Key Medical Surgical related questions and content

During an assessment, a client with a long history of smoking and suspected laryngeal cancer will most likely report which early manifestation?

  • A. Dysphagia
  • B. Hoarseness
  • C. Dyspnea
  • D. Weight loss
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hoarseness. Hoarseness is a common early manifestation of laryngeal cancer due to vocal cord involvement. Smoking is a major risk factor for laryngeal cancer. Dysphagia (choice A) is more commonly associated with esophageal cancer. Dyspnea (choice C) is usually a late manifestation of laryngeal cancer when it causes airway obstruction. Weight loss (choice D) may occur later in the disease progression but is not typically an early sign. Thus, hoarseness is the most likely early manifestation due to its direct connection to the vocal cords and smoking history.