MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

RESPIRATORY

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
A nurse is caring for a patient with an asthma exacerbation. For which of the following reasons should the nurse carefully inspect the chest wall of the client?
A
Monitor chest expansion
B
Observe for intercostal muscle use
C
Observe for signs of diaphoresis
D
Monitor for hyperventilation
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -The priority of the clinical examination is to confirm the diagnosis of asthma quickly and to assess its severity. The general appearance of the patient, including difficulty in talking, respiratory rate and heart rate form the basis of the clinical assessment of severity.

Detailed explanation-2: -Weight loss, smoking cessation, occupational change, and self-monitoring are all important in preventing disease progression and reducing the number of acute attacks.

Detailed explanation-3: -The signs of asthma exacerbation include agitation, increased respiratory rate, increased pulse rate, and decreased lung function as measured by FEV1, peak expiratory flow (PEF), Pao2, Paco2, and arterial oxygen saturation (Sao2).

Detailed explanation-4: -Seek medical attention right away if you have signs or symptoms of a serious asthma attack, which include: Severe breathlessness or wheezing, especially at night or in the early morning. The inability to speak more than short phrases due to shortness of breath. Having to strain your chest muscles to breathe.

There is 1 question to complete.