A nurse's assessment reveals that a client with COPD may be experiencing bronchospasm. What assessment finding would suggest that the patient is experiencing bronchospasm?
A) Fine or coarse crackles on auscultation
B) Wheezes or diminished breath sounds on auscultation
C) Reduced respiratory rate or lethargy
D) Slow, deliberate respirations
Ans: B
Feedback:
Wheezing and diminished breath sounds are consistent with bronchospasm. Crackles are usually attributable to other respiratory or cardiac pathologies. Bronchospasm usually results in rapid, inefficient breathing and agitation.
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