A patient is admitted with asthma.The nurse's assessment finds a temperature of 99° F,wheezing,speaking in three-word phrases,and respiratory rate of 16 breaths per minute.Which of the following are the best defining characteristics to support the diagnosis of ineffective airway clearance related to inflammation and constriction of the bronchial tree?
A) Elevated temperature and respiratory rate
B) Diagnosis of asthma with wheezing
C) Wheezing and speaking in three-word phrases
D) Limited vocalization and fever

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The defining characteristics that directly support the diagnosis of ineffective airway clearance related to inflammation and constriction of the bronchial tree are wheezing and speaking in three-word phrases. The presence of asthma and an elevated temperature and respiratory rate may also be indicative of this diagnosis, but they are not as specific or directly related to ineffective airway clearance as the wheezing and limited speech. Limited vocalization and fever are not significant defining characteristics for this diagnosis.

A Patient Is Admitted with Asthma