Multiple Choice Questions About Respiratory System Related

Review Multiple Choice Questions About Respiratory System related questions and content

The nurse is assessing a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which assessment finding indicates a potential complication and requires the nurse's immediate attention?

  • A. Distended neck veins
  • B. Left lower quadrant tenderness
  • C. Urinary output of 40 mL/hr
  • D. Excessive coughing
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Distended neck veins. This finding indicates potential right-sided heart failure, a complication of COPD called cor pulmonale. The nurse should address this immediately to prevent further deterioration. Distended neck veins suggest increased central venous pressure and impaired right heart function. Left lower quadrant tenderness (B) is unrelated to COPD. Urinary output of 40 mL/hr (C) is within normal range. Excessive coughing (D) is a common symptom of COPD but does not indicate an immediate complication.