Question

A nurse is admitting a client with a possible diagnosis of chronic bronchitis. The nurse collects data from the client and notes that which of the following signs supports this diagnosis? Select all that apply.

1. Scant mucus
2. Early onset cough
3. Marked weight loss
4. Purulent mucus production
5. Mild episodes of dyspnea

Answer 1

Signs supporting a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis include an early onset cough, purulent mucus production, and mild episodes of dyspnea. These symptoms are indicative of the chronic poor airflow and mucus production characteristic of chronic bronchitis.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse admitting a client with a possible diagnosis of chronic bronchitis would note certain signs that support this diagnosis. Chronic bronchitis, a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by chronic poor airflow, and the main symptoms include shortness of breath and a cough that produces phlegm. Among the signs you've listed, the following support the diagnosis of chronic bronchitis:

• Early onset cough: This could be a sign as chronic bronchitis often starts with a persistent cough.
• Purulent mucus production: A frequent symptom of chronic bronchitis is the production of mucus that can be purulent (containing pus) indicating infection.
• Mild episodes of dyspnea: Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is common in chronic bronchitis, especially during physical exertion.

The other options, such as marked weight loss, are not typically associated with chronic bronchitis and are more indicative of other conditions like cancer or tuberculosis.