The respiratory therapist is performing chest assessment on a ...

[itsmyluck]

The respiratory therapist is performing chest assessment on a post-op cholecystectomy patient who has developed cough, fever, and tachypnea.
 
  Which of the following would the therapist expect to find confirming the suspicion of post-op atelectasis in this patient?
  a. Decreased tactile and vocal fremitus
  b. Hyperresonant percussion note
  c. Bronchial breath sounds
  d. Wheezes

Question 2

How does pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) affect lung function?
 
  1. Increased airway resistance
  2. Decreased lung compliance
  3. Increased lung compliance
  4. Decreased airway resistance
  a. 1
  b. 1, 2
  c. 3, 4
  d. 2, 4

[ririgirl15]

Answer to Question 1

C
Chest assessment findings in atelectasis include: increased tactile and vocal fremitus, dull percussion note, bronchial breath sounds, diminished breath sounds (common when atelectasis is caused by mucous plugs), and crackles (usually heard initially in the dependent lung regions and during late inspiration). Wheezing would not be expected.

Answer to Question 2

D
PIE primarily causes decreased lung compliance by hyperinflating the lungs. Additionally, gas trapped within the interstitial cuffs compresses the airways and increases airway resistance.