Final answer:
C) A decrease in respiratory rate from 34 to 24 In the care of a client with Legionnaire's disease, a decrease in chest wall expansion requires immediate attention as it can indicate serious respiratory distress and potential failure.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the care of a client with Legionnaire's disease, the finding that would require the nurse's immediate attention is a decrease in chest wall expansion. This suggests a worsening of the condition and may indicate respiratory distress or failure. As Legionnaire's disease is an atypical pneumonia caused by the inhalation of Legionella pneumophila, severe lung complications can occur, particularly in susceptible individuals such as those with chronic heart or lung diseases, or an immunocompromised state. Immediate medical intervention may be required to support the patient's breathing and ensure adequate oxygenation.A decrease in respiratory rate from 34 to 24, while significant, is less alarming if it does not come with other signs of respiratory distress.
Pleuritic pain on inspiration and dry mucus membranes in the mouth are concerning findings but not as immediately life-threatening as a decrease in chest wall expansion.During the care of a client with Legionnaire's disease, if the nurse were to find pleuritic pain on inspiration, it would require immediate attention. Pleuritic pain is a sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing and can be a sign of a serious lung infection or inflammation. It is important for the nurse to assess the client further and report the finding to the healthcare provider for prompt evaluation and appropriate intervention.