During an assessment, a patient begins to cough. How would the nurse evaluate this finding?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Coughing during an assessment may indicate that something other than air is entering the larynx, such as food or liquid. This can be a sign of dysphagia or other swallowing difficulties, and requires further evaluation by a healthcare provider. It is important to rule out any potential choking or aspiration risks for the patient's safety. The other answer choices (A, B, and D) are possible explanations for coughing but are not necessarily the most likely in this context.

During an Assessment, a Patient Begins to Cough