Alterations of Pulmonary Function Chapter 29 Exam with Questions and Solutions

Alterations of Pulmonary Function Chapter 29 Exam with Questions and Solutions A 10 year old develops pneumonia. Physical exam reveals subcostal and intercostal retractions. The child reports that breathing is difficult with feelings that, "I cannot get enough air." What term should the nurse use to document this condition? a. Cyanosis b. Dyspnea c. Hyperpnea d. Orthopnea ANSWER ANS: B Dyspnea is defined as "a subjective experience of breathing discomfort that consists of qualitatively distinct sensations that vary in intensity." Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration to the skin. Hyperpnea is an increased ventilatory rate and orthopnea is dyspnea that occurs when an individual lies flat A 20 year old presents reporting difficulty breathing when lying down. What term should the nurse use to document this condition? a. Dyspnea b. Orthopnea c. Apnea d. Tachypnea ANSWER ANS: B Orthopnea is dyspnea that occurs when an individual lies flat. Dyspnea is shortness of breath that occurs with activity. Apnea is cessation of breathing, and tachypnea is rapid breathing.