Questions Respiratory System Related

Review Questions Respiratory System related questions and content

Which of these assessments made by the nurse indicates that respiratory arrest is imminent in an asthmatic?

  • A. Agitation.
  • B. Tachycardia.
  • C. Absence of wheezing.
  • D. Flaring nares.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Absence of wheezing. In asthmatics, wheezing is a common sign of airway obstruction. The absence of wheezing indicates a severe obstruction leading to reduced airflow, which can progress to respiratory arrest. Agitation (A) and tachycardia (B) are common signs of distress but do not specifically indicate imminent respiratory arrest. Flaring nares (D) may suggest increased work of breathing, but it is not as specific as the absence of wheezing in predicting imminent respiratory arrest in asthmatics.