Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Lower Respiratory Disorders Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Lower Respiratory Disorders related questions and content

The client with a lower respiratory airway infection is presenting with the following symptoms: fever, chills, dry hacking cough, and wheezing. Which nursing diagnosis best supports the assessment by the nurse?

  • A. Infection Risk
  • B. Impaired Gas Exchange
  • C. Ineffective Airway Clearance
  • D. Altered Breathing Pattern
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The symptom of wheezing indicates a narrowing or partial obstruction of the airway from inflammation or secretions. Infection Risk is a real potential because the client is already exhibiting symptoms of infection (fever with chills). Impaired Gas Exchange may occur, but no symptom listed supports poor exchange of gases. No documentation of respiratory rate or abnormalities is listed to justify this nursing diagnosis.