Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Test Bank - Care of the Patient With a Respiratory Disorder Cooper: Foundations and Adult Health Nursing, 9th Edition Related

Review Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Test Bank - Care of the Patient With a Respiratory Disorder Cooper: Foundations and Adult Health Nursing, 9th Edition related questions and content

Which patient assessment indicates the most severe respiratory distress?

  • A. Nasal flaring, symmetrical chest wall expansion, SaO2 88%
  • B. Abdominal breathing, SaO2 97%
  • C. Substernal retraction, SaO2 84%
  • D. Substernal retraction, SaO2 90%
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Observe the patient's facial expressions and signs of respiratory distress, such as flaring nostrils, substernal or clavicular retractions, asymmetrical chest wall expansion, and abdominal breathing. The lower the SaO2, the more severe the respiratory distress.