Asked by Nhàn ?oàn on May 07, 2024

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A patient has suddenly developed shortness of breath and appears to be in significant respiratory distress. After calling the physician and placing the patient on oxygen, which of these actions is the best for the nurse to take when further assessing the patient?

A) Count the patient's respirations.
B) Bilaterally percuss the thorax, noting any differences in percussion tones.
C) Call for a chest x-ray, and wait for the results before beginning an assessment.
D) Inspect the thorax for any new masses and bleeding associated with respirations.

Respiratory Distress

A medical condition characterized by difficulty breathing, often indicating an underlying health issue or emergency.

Percuss the Thorax

A diagnostic method involving tapping on the chest wall to assess the condition of the heart and lungs.

Oxygen

A chemical element essential for respiration in most living organisms, and necessary for many combustion processes.

  • Ascertain the appropriate processes and alterations required in the assessment of patients presenting with varied physical conditions, including obesity, respiratory distress, and in the case of children.
  • Recognize the significance of findings in physical assessments, including normal and abnormal sounds in the abdomen, thorax, and over the liver.
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Verified Answer

RF
Ramisa FairuzMay 12, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
Percussion is always available, portable, and offers instant feedback regarding changes in underlying tissue density, which may yield clues of the patient's physical status.