Question

An 80-year-old client comes to the clinic reporting shortness of breath. When listening to the client's lungs, the nurse hears crackles (intermittent, high- and low-pitched popping sounds in the lower bases of the lungs) during inspiration. In which conditions might the nurse auscultate crackles? Select all that apply.

A. Epiglottitis.
B. Acute respiratory distress syndrome.
C. Pneumonia.
D. Pulmonary edema.
E. Cardiac tamponade.

Answer 1

Crackles (intermittent, high- and low-pitched popping sounds in the lower bases of the lungs) can be auscultated in several conditions, including pneumonia, pulmonary edema, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Step-by-step explanation:

Crackles (intermittent, high- and low-pitched popping sounds in the lower bases of the lungs) during inspiration can be auscultated in several conditions. The nurse may hear crackles in patients with:

• Pneumonia: Pneumonia is a disease in which the alveoli of the lungs fill with fluid, leading to inflammation and impaired gas exchange. Crackles are often heard in the affected areas.
• Pulmonary edema: Pulmonary edema is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the lungs, usually due to heart failure. The accumulation of fluid can cause crackles to be heard during inspiration.
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS): ARDS is a severe lung condition characterized by inflammation and fluid accumulation in the alveoli. Crackles are a common finding in ARDS.