HESI Fundamentals Study Guide Related

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During an assessment, a nurse is evaluating the breath sounds of an adult client diagnosed with pneumonia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Follow a systematic pattern from side-to-side moving down the client's chest.
  • B. Ask the client to breathe in deeply through their nose.
  • C. Instruct the client to sit upright with their head slightly tilted backward.
  • D. Place the diaphragm of the stethoscope on the client's chest.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When assessing breath sounds in a client with pneumonia, the nurse should follow a systematic pattern from side-to-side moving down the client's chest. This approach ensures a comprehensive evaluation of breath sounds across different lung fields. Asking the client to breathe in deeply through their nose (Choice B) is not necessary for assessing breath sounds. Instructing the client to sit upright with their head slightly tilted backward (Choice C) is not directly related to assessing breath sounds and may not be required. Placing the diaphragm of the stethoscope on the client's chest (Choice D) is not the correct technique for auscultating breath sounds, as the diaphragm should be used for this purpose.