The nurse knows that a normal finding when assessing the ...

[ishan]

The nurse knows that a normal finding when assessing the respiratory system of an older adult is:
 
  a. Increased thoracic expansion.
  b. Decreased mobility of the thorax.
  c. Decreased anteroposterior diameter.
  d. Bronchovesicular breath sounds throughout the lungs.

Question 2

When inspecting the anterior chest of an adult, the nurse should include which assessment?
 
  a. Diaphragmatic excursion
  b. Symmetric chest expansion
  c. Presence of breath sounds
  d. Shape and configuration of the chest wall

[SeanoH09]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The costal cartilages become calcified with aging, resulting in a less mobile thorax. Chest expansion may be somewhat decreased, and the chest cage commonly shows an increased anteroposterior diameter.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Inspection of the anterior chest includes shape and configuration of the chest wall; assessment of the patient's level of consciousness and the patient's skin color and condition; quality of respirations; presence or absence of retraction and bulging of the intercostal spaces; and use of accessory muscles. Symmetric chest expansion is assessed by palpation. Diaphragmatic excursion is assessed by percussion of the posterior chest. Breath sounds are assessed by auscultation.