A healthcare professional is assessing a client who is recovering from a lung biopsy. Which assessment finding requires immediate action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Absent breath sounds. This finding requires immediate action because it could indicate a pneumothorax, which is a potentially life-threatening complication following a lung biopsy. Absent breath sounds suggest air trapped in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent respiratory distress.
A: Increased temperature is concerning but may indicate infection, which would require monitoring and possibly treatment, but it is not as urgent as addressing a potential pneumothorax.
C: Productive cough is common post-lung biopsy and may be managed symptomatically. It does not typically require immediate action.
D: Incisional discomfort is expected after a biopsy and can be managed with pain medication. It does not indicate a critical issue requiring immediate intervention.