Assessment of a client with difficulty breathing reveals thick, tenacious secretions in the trachea and bronchi and excessive sputum with coughing. The respiratory rate is slightly increased. When developing this client's plan of care, which nursing diagnostic label would be most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Based on the assessment, the nurse should identify specific cues, such as the thick secretions, excessive sputum, and coughing, which would indicate a problem with a clear airway. Although the client may be experiencing problems with his or her activity level or a disruption in his or her sleep from coughing, there is no indication that either of these is occurring. The client's respiratory rate is increased; however, he or she is breathing independently.

Assessment of a Client with Difficulty Breathing Reveals Thick, Tenacious