Answers | 2026/2027 | Rasmussen University
Q1.
A client with chronic bronchitis has an oxygen saturation of 84% and
increasing respiratory distress. Which assessment is the nurse's
priority?
A) Oxygenation and respiratory effort
B) Nutritional intake
C) Bowel elimination
D) Skin integrity
Correct Answer: A) Oxygenation and respiratory effort
Rationale: Hypoxemia and respiratory distress threaten airway and
breathing and require immediate assessment and intervention.
Q2.
Which finding is most characteristic of chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD)?
A) Persistent airflow limitation
B) Acute appendicitis
C) Increased renal filtration
D) Hyperthyroidism
Correct Answer: A) Persistent airflow limitation
Rationale: COPD is characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and
airflow limitation resulting from airway and/or alveolar abnormalities.
Q3.
Which assessment finding is commonly associated with
emphysema?
A) Barrel chest
B) Massive peripheral edema as the primary finding
C) Hematemesis
D) Severe bradycardia
Correct Answer: A) Barrel chest
Rationale: Hyperinflation associated with emphysema can produce a barrel-
shaped chest.
Q4.
Which finding is most characteristic of chronic bronchitis?
, A) Chronic productive cough
B) Sudden loss of vision
C) Painless testicular mass
D) Severe dysuria
Correct Answer: A) Chronic productive cough
Rationale: Chronic bronchitis is associated with chronic cough and sputum
production resulting from airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion.
Q5.
A client with COPD is experiencing dyspnea. Which position may
improve ventilation?
A) Upright with the upper body supported
B) Flat supine
C) Trendelenburg
D) Prone with the head unsupported
Correct Answer: A) Upright with the upper body supported
Rationale: Upright and forward-supported positions can improve
diaphragmatic expansion and reduce the work of breathing.
Q6.
Which intervention is appropriate for a client with chronic airflow
limitation?
A) Teach pursed-lip breathing
B) Encourage rapid shallow breathing
C) Discourage coughing
D) Keep the client flat in bed
Correct Answer: A) Teach pursed-lip breathing
Rationale: Pursed-lip breathing slows expiration and helps prevent
premature airway collapse and air trapping.
Q7.
A client with COPD reports worsening shortness of breath. Which
finding indicates possible respiratory deterioration?
A) Increasing somnolence and rising PaCO2
B) Stable respiratory rate
C) Improved oxygen saturation
D) Decreased work of breathing