Question

A patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis had bilateral lung transplantation and is now experiencing exertional dyspnea, nonproductive cough, and wheezing. What does the nurse determine is most likely occurring in this patient?

A) Allergic reaction.
B) Pneumonia.
C) Organ rejection.
D) Tuberculosis.

Answer 1

In a patient with a recent bilateral lung transplantation experiencing exertional dyspnea, nonproductive cough, and wheezing, organ rejection is the most likely diagnosis, as these symptoms suggest an inflammatory response impacting lung function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The symptoms described such as exertional dyspnea, nonproductive cough, and wheezing in a patient who has undergone bilateral lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis suggest that the most likely condition occurring is organ rejection. While pneumonia, allergic reactions, and tuberculosis are potential causes of similar symptoms, the recent lung transplantation and the specific combination of symptoms such as exertional dyspnea and wheezing that are not typical for infections or allergic reactions point more to the possibility of organ rejection. Organ rejection can cause an inflammatory response that leads to fibrosis and scarring, impairing lung function and leading to signs like dyspnea and cough.