Question

A patient is admitted with asthma. The nurse's assessment finds a temperature of 99 F, wheezing, speaking in 3-word phrases, and respiratory rate of 16 breaths/minute. Which are the best defining characteristics to support diagnosis of ineffective airway clearance related to inflammation and constriction of bronchial tree?

Answer 1

The defining characteristics to support the diagnosis of ineffective airway clearance in a patient with asthma include wheezing, speaking in 3-word phrases, and a respiratory rate of 16 breaths/minute.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the given information, the best defining characteristics to support the diagnosis of ineffective airway clearance related to inflammation and constriction of the bronchial tree in a patient with asthma include:

1. Wheezing: This is a high-pitched whistling sound heard during breathing and is a common symptom of bronchoconstriction.
2. Speaking in 3-word phrases: This indicates the patient's difficulty breathing and inability to speak in full sentences due to airway obstruction.
3. Respiratory rate of 16 breaths/minute: This is within the normal range but can be increased during asthma exacerbations as the body tries to compensate for reduced oxygen intake.

These clinical manifestations, along with the patient's history of asthma, support the diagnosis of ineffective airway clearance. Effective management of asthma involves addressing the inflammation and bronchoconstriction through medications, monitoring airway clearance, and providing patient education on triggers and self-care measures.