Based on the lung assessment information included in the hand-off report, which client should the nurse assess first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clients with acute pancreatitis can develop respiratory complications including pleural effusions, atelectasis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). These complications are often due to activated pancreatic enzymes and cytokines that are released from the pancreas into the circulation and cause focal or systemic inflammation. ARDS is the most severe form of these complications and can rapidly progress to respiratory failure within a few hours. Therefore, the presence of inspiratory crackles in this client could indicate early ARDS and needs to be assessed further for progression. (Option A) Fine crackles are a series of distinct, discontinuous, and high-pitched snapping sounds usually heard on inspiration. The sound originates as small atelectatic bronchioles quickly reinflate and can be expected in clients who have undergone abdominal surgery due to shallow breathing related to pain. Although the presence of fine crackles requires treatment (eg, ambulation, deep breathing), this is not the priority assessment. (Option B) Rhonchi are continuous, low-pitched wheezes usually heard on expiration that sound like moaning or snoring. The sound originates from air moving through large airways (bronchi) filled with mucus secretions and are expected in clients with chronic bronchitis. Although they require treatment (eg, medication, mobilization of secretions), this is not the priority assessment. (Option C) The lung under the pleural effusion is compressed, and the breath sounds are decreased/absent if auscultated over the area; this is an expected finding. Until the pleural effusion is treated with diuretics or thoracentesis, these findings will remain unchanged. Educational objective: Clients with acute pancreatitis are at high risk for developing acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Based on the Lung Assessment Information Included in the Hand-Off