Respiratory

Question 1

What are some signs of respiratory distress?

Answer 1

Accessory muscle use, intercostal retraction (COPD), nasal flaring, tripod position, cyanosis

Question 2

What should the ratio be for AP diameter vs. lateral measurement of the chest wall?

Answer 2

1:2 (AP to lateral)

Question 3

What is important to remember when listening to breath sounds?

Answer 3

1. Have patient breathe thru mouth

2. Listen to complete inspiration and expiration

Question 4

What is the difference between bronchiolar and vesicular (alveolar) breath sounds?

Answer 4

Larger airways have deeper AND louder sounds

Question 5

When listening to breath sounds, what might crackles indicate?

Answer 5

1. Pneumonia
2. Fibrosis
3. Heart Failure

Question 6

When listening to breath sounds, what might wheezes indicate?

Answer 6

1. Bronchospasm
2. Asthma
3. COPD
4. Bronchitis

Question 7

When listening to breath sounds, what might rhonchi indicate

Answer 7

Excess secretions in the airway

Question 8

What conditions decrease tactile fremitus?

Answer 8

COPD, pleural effusion, pneumothorax

Question 9

What generally causes a decreased or dull percussion vs. increased or resonant percussion?

Answer 9

Dull - consolidation or fluid (effusion, pneumonia)

Resonant - air (pneumothorax, COPD)

Question 10

Describe the change in tactile fremitus and resonance in pneumonia.

Answer 10

Increase TF

Decreased Res.

Question 11

Describe the change in tactile fremitus and resonance with a pneumothorax.

Answer 11

Decreased TF

Increased Res.

Question 12

Describe the change in tactile fremitus and resonance in pleural effusion.

Answer 12

Decreased TF

Decreased Res.