Question

The nurse is caring for a client hospitalized with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Which findings would the nurse expect to note on assessment of this client? Select all that apply. a) A low arterial PCo2 level b) A hyperinflated chest noted on the chest x-ray c) Decreased oxygen saturation with mild exercise d) A widened diaphragm noted on the chest x-ray e) Pulmonary function tests that demonstrate increased vital capacity

Answer 1

A nurse would expect to note a hyperinflated chest on a chest x-ray, decreased oxygen saturation with mild exercise, and pulmonary function tests that demonstrate decreased vital capacity in a client with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a client hospitalized with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the nurse would expect to note the following findings on assessment:

1. A low arterial PCo2 level: In COPD, the body retains carbon dioxide, resulting in an elevated PCo2 level. Therefore, a low PCo2 level would not be expected.
2. 
   
3. 
   
4. A hyperinflated chest noted on the chest x-ray: In COPD, air becomes trapped in the lungs, causing hyperinflation. This can be visualized on a chest x-ray.
5. 
   
6. 
   
7. Decreased oxygen saturation with mild exercise: In COPD, the ability to oxygenate the blood is impaired, leading to decreased oxygen saturation levels, especially with exertion.
8. 
   
9. 
   
10. A widened diaphragm noted on the chest x-ray: A widened diaphragm is not a typical finding in COPD. Instead, the diaphragm may be flattened or elevated.
11. 
    
12. 
    
13. Pulmonary function tests that demonstrate increased vital capacity: In COPD, the vital capacity is often decreased due to air trapping and decreased lung compliance, so an increased vital capacity would not be expected.