Final answer:
The twelfth step in checking lung sounds involves auscultation, where healthcare providers listen for abnormal lung sounds with a stethoscope, which can indicate respiratory conditions. Additional tests like chest radiographs or sputum samples may follow if abnormal sounds are detected.
Step-by-step explanation:
The twelfth step in checking lung sounds in a patient typically involves a healthcare provider using auscultation techniques with a stethoscope to listen to the respiratory system. During auscultation, abnormal lung sounds, such as wheezes, rales, or rhonchi, can be detected, which could indicate various respiratory conditions. This step is crucial after observing symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or an allergic reaction that can cause airways to swell and increase resistance in the lungs. Additionally, in the scenario provided, the healthcare professional may also find it necessary to order a chest radiograph or collect sputum samples if crepitation or other abnormal sounds are heard during the lung examination, leading to further diagnostic testing.