A client is experiencing chest pain that occurs in the third costochondral joint. The onset was sudden; it radiated to the shoulders; and it becomes worse when taking a deep breath or twisting the torso. The nurse suspects that this client is experiencing:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's symptoms are consistent with musculoskeletal-costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the sternum. The pain is usually localized to a specific costochondral joint and worsens with movement or deep breathing. Aortic dissection, pulmonary embolus, and pneumothorax present with different symptoms and are not likely in this case.

A Client Is Experiencing Chest Pain That Occurs in the Third