What findings are expected when assessing a patient with atelectasis?
Select all that apply.
What findings are expected when assessing a patient with atelectasis?
Select all that apply.
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Adult Health
Lesson
Respiratory
Client Need
Test Plan
Physiological Adaptation
Related Topic
Alterations in Body Systems
Item Type
Item Type
Knowledge/Comprehension
Explanation
Choices A, B, D, and E are correct. Incomplete lung expansion or the collapse of alveoli, known as atelectasis, prevents pressure changes and gas exchange by diffusion in the lungs. With atelectasis, lung tissue has collapsed, which leads to less lung mass available for oxygenation. The oxygen saturation is decreased, as well as breath sounds. Additionally, the patient will experience shortness of breath. Since alveoli collapse, there is more open space between the lung tissue and the chest wall. Open space does not transmit sound very well (decreased tactile fremitus).
Areas of the lung with atelectasis cannot fulfill the function of respiration. Coughing, chest pain, cyanosis, dyspnea, and tachycardia are common symptoms of atelectasis.
Choice C is incorrect. The percussion sound may be dull but not hyper-resonant in atelectasis or consolidation.
Learning Objective
Recognize the physical findings of atelectasis
https://app.archerreview.com/test-screen/MjQzMzczNDk=/MTIxMzc=
