(2026) Actual Questions & Verified
Answers Illinois State University (A+
Guarantee)
1.
A client with COPD has an oxygen saturation of 82% and
increasing dyspnea. What is the nurse's priority action?
A. Encourage oral fluids
B. Assess respiratory status and administer oxygen as
prescribed
C. Encourage ambulation
D. Place the client flat
Answer: B
Rationale: Severe hypoxemia requires immediate assessment
and oxygen support.
2.
Which finding is characteristic of emphysema?
A. Pulmonary edema
B. Hyperinflation and prolonged expiration
,C. Bradycardia
D. Pleural effusion
Answer: B
Rationale: Destruction of alveolar walls causes air trapping and
hyperinflation.
3.
Which breathing technique should the nurse teach a client with
COPD?
A. Pursed-lip breathing
B. Rapid breathing
C. Breath holding
D. Shallow breathing
Answer: A
Rationale: Pursed-lip breathing prolongs expiration and helps
reduce air trapping.
4.
A client with asthma develops severe wheezing and difficulty
speaking. Which medication would the nurse anticipate?
A. Rapid-acting bronchodilator
B. Diuretic
,C. Anticoagulant
D. Antibiotic only
Answer: A
Rationale: A short-acting bronchodilator such as albuterol is
commonly used for acute bronchospasm.
5.
Which finding in a client with asthma indicates severe
respiratory distress?
A. Ability to speak normally
B. Silent chest with increasing respiratory effort
C. Mild cough
D. Respiratory rate of 16/min
Answer: B
Rationale: A silent chest can indicate critically reduced airflow.
6.
A client with pneumonia has an oxygen saturation of 84%.
What is the priority?
A. Apply oxygen as prescribed
B. Encourage ambulation
C. Restrict fluids
D. Give a large meal
, Answer: A
Rationale: Hypoxemia is an immediate priority.
7.
Which intervention can help mobilize respiratory secretions?
A. Adequate hydration when not contraindicated
B. Strict fluid restriction
C. Complete bed rest
D. Avoiding coughing
Answer: A
Rationale: Adequate hydration helps keep secretions less
viscous.
8.
A client suddenly develops chest pain, dyspnea, and
tachycardia after surgery. What complication should the nurse
suspect?
A. Pulmonary embolism
B. Constipation
C. Hypothyroidism
D. Appendicitis
Answer: A