When assessing a preschooler's chest, what should the nurse ...

[RODY.ELKHALIL]

When assessing a preschooler's chest, what should the nurse expect?
 
  a. Respiratory movements to be chiefly thoracic
  b. Anteroposterior diameter to be equal to the transverse diameter
  c. Retraction of the muscles between the ribs on respiratory movement
  d. Movement of the chest wall to be symmetric bilaterally and coordinated with breathing

Question 2

What is the appropriate placement of a tongue blade for assessment of the mouth and throat?
 
  a. On the lower jaw
  b. Side of the tongue
  c. Against the soft palate
  d. Center back area of the tongue

[djofnc]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Movement of the chest wall should be symmetric bilaterally and coordinated with breathing. In children younger than 6 or 7 years, respiratory movement is principally abdominal or diaphragmatic. The anteroposterior diameter is equal to the transverse diameter during infancy. As the child grows, the chest increases in the transverse direction, so that the anteroposterior diameter is less than the lateral diameter. Retractions of the muscles between the ribs on respiratory movement are indicative of respiratory distress.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The side of the tongue is the correct position. It avoids the gag reflex yet allows visualization. On the lower jaw and against the soft palate are not appropriate places for the tongue blade. Placement in the center back area of the tongue elicits the gag reflex.