ATI RN
NCLEX RN Questions on Respiratory System Questions
Question 1 of 5
When the diaphragm and external intercostals muscles contract, which of the following actions does NOT occur?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: When the diaphragm and external intercostals contract, the thoracic cavity expands, causing the lungs to expand and the intrapulmonary pressure to decrease (choice D). This decrease in pressure allows air to flow into the lungs (choice A). The diaphragm moves inferiorly during contraction, not superiorly (choice C). The intrapleural pressure actually decreases when these muscles contract, not increases, due to increased thoracic volume and decreased intrapleural pressure acting as a suction to keep the lungs inflated (choice B). Therefore, the correct answer is B, as the intrapleural pressure actually decreases when the diaphragm and external intercostals contract.
Question 2 of 5
The covering of the lung is called
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pleural membrane/pleura. The pleural membrane is a double-layered serous membrane that covers the lungs. The visceral pleura is attached to the lung surface, while the parietal pleura lines the chest cavity. This arrangement helps reduce friction and allows the lungs to expand during breathing. A: Pericardium covers the heart, not the lungs. B: Perichondrium covers cartilage, not the lungs. D: Peritoneum covers abdominal organs, not the lungs. Therefore, the correct choice is C because it specifically refers to the covering of the lungs.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse auscultates a harsh hollow sound over a client's trachea and larynx. What action would the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct action is to document the findings first because the harsh hollow sound over the trachea and larynx could indicate a potential issue with the airway or respiratory function. Documenting the findings allows for accurate communication with other healthcare providers and helps track changes in the client's condition. Administering oxygen therapy or albuterol should not be done without further assessment or orders from a healthcare provider. Positioning the client in high-Fowler position may not be the priority until a more thorough assessment is completed.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse cares for a client who had a partial laryngectomy 10 days ago. The client states that all food tastes bland. How would the nurse respond?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step 1: Acknowledge client's concern about bland taste. Step 2: Validate normalcy post-laryngectomy. Step 3: Assess client's food preferences for individualized care. Step 4: Encourage open communication for effective care plan. Step 5: Addressing the issue holistically promotes client-centered care. Summary: - A: Focuses on swallowing, not taste. - C: Addresses food consistency, not taste. - D: Important but not directly related to client's concern.
Question 5 of 5
A client is admitted with suspected pneumonia from the emergency department. The client went to the primary health care provider a few days ago" and shows the nurse the results of what the client calls an allergy test" as shown below: The reddened area is firm. What action by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Prepare to begin administration of intravenous antibiotics. This is the best action because the client is suspected of having pneumonia, which is commonly treated with antibiotics. The nurse should prepare to start IV antibiotics to address the infection promptly. Choice A is incorrect because requesting records from the primary health care provider's office may delay treatment. Choice B is incorrect because airborne precautions are not necessary for suspected pneumonia. Choice D is incomplete and does not provide a clear action plan for addressing the client's condition.