Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the expected lung sounds in an asthmatic patient during an exacerbation?

1. Clear and normal

2. Coarse crackles

3. Inspiratory and expiratory wheezes

4. Absent breath sounds

The correct answer is: Inspiratory and expiratory wheezes

The expected lung sounds in an asthmatic patient during an exacerbation typically include inspiratory and expiratory wheezes. Wheezing occurs due to the narrowing of the airways caused by bronchoconstriction, inflammation, and increased mucus production, all of which are hallmark features of an asthma exacerbation. During an exacerbation, the sound of wheezing can often be heard during both inhalation and exhalation, but it may be more pronounced during expiration due to the increased resistance that patients experience when breathing out. This is significant in asthma management because the presence of wheezing indicates effective airflow obstruction that can lead to further complications if not treated promptly. In comparing this to the other options, clear and normal lung sounds would not be expected in an asthmatic patient experiencing an exacerbation, as the underlying pathophysiology of asthma directly impacts airway patency and airflow. Coarse crackles are more commonly associated with conditions like pneumonia or pulmonary edema rather than asthma. Absent breath sounds could indicate severe respiratory distress or a critical condition, but this scenario typically does not represent a standard finding in asthmatic exacerbations. Therefore, inspiratory and expiratory wheezes accurately reflect the typical lung sounds in this clinical situation.