While listening to the posterior chest of a patient who is experiencing acute shortness of breath, the nurse hears these sounds. How should the nurse document the lung sounds?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Without audio, high-pitched wheezes are typical in acute dyspnea due to airway obstruction (e.g., asthma).

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Increased tactile fremitus over the area of pulmonary consolidation is expected with bacterial pneumonias. Dullness to percussion would be expected. Pneumococcal pneumonia typically presents with a loose, productive cough. Adventitious breath sounds such as crackles and wheezes are typical. A grating sound is more representative of a pleural friction rub rather than pneumonia.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Frequent deep breathing and coughing are needed after chest surgery to prevent atelectasis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: UAP education includes documentation of intake and output. The other actions are within the scope of practice and education of licensed nursing personnel.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Patients with COPD improve the mechanics of breathing by sitting up in the 'tripod' position. Resting in bed with the head elevated in a semi-Fowler's position would be an alternative position if the patient was confined to bed, but sitting in a chair allows better ventilation.