PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

A nurse notes a client with an obstructive pulmonary disorder exhibiting wheezing. What does this indicate about the client's condition?

1. The presence of abdominal fluid.

2. An issue with pleural layers.

3. Narrowing of the airways.

4. Normal breath sounds with no obstruction.

The correct answer is: Narrowing of the airways.

Wheezing is a high-pitched sound produced during breathing, typically indicating that air is moving through narrowed airways. In the context of an obstructive pulmonary disorder, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), this narrowing can occur due to inflammation, bronchospasm, or excess mucus production. As airflow is restricted during expiration or inspiration, it results in the characteristic wheezing sound. Recognizing wheezing as a sign of airway narrowing is essential for nursing care, as it can guide the nurse in assessing the severity of the condition and determining appropriate interventions, such as administering bronchodilators or other medications to relieve bronchoconstriction and improve airflow. Understanding this correlation is crucial for monitoring and managing patients with obstructive pulmonary disorders effectively.