Author Question: During auscultation of the lungs, the nurse expects decreased breath sounds to be heard in which ... (Read 73 times)

abarnes · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

During auscultation of the lungs, the nurse expects decreased breath sounds to be heard in which situation?

a. When the bronchial tree is obstructed
b. When adventitious sounds are present
c. In conjunction with whispered pectoriloquy
d. In conditions of consolidation, such as pneumonia

Question 2

The nurse is auscultating the chest in an adult. Which technique is correct?

a. Instructing the patient to take deep, rapid breaths
b. Instructing the patient to breathe in and out through his or her nose
c. Firmly holding the diaphragm of the stethoscope against the chest
d. Lightly holding the bell of the stethoscope against the chest to avoid friction

juicepod · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Decreased or absent breath sounds occur when the bronchial tree is obstructed, as in emphysema, and when sound transmission is obstructed, as in pleurisy, pneumothorax, or pleural effusion.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Firmly holding the diaphragm of the stethoscope against the chest is the correct way to auscultate breath sounds. The patient should be instructed to breathe through his or her mouth, a little deeper than usual, but not to hyperventilate.