A 42-year-old male client has a history of smoking for 20 years. The client states he is feeling fine and asks why stopping smoking is necessary. What information should the nurse share with the client about the potential lung damage smoking can cause?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Smoking can lead to a decrease in the size of the airways and tubes leading to the lungs, contributing to obstructive pulmonary diseases like chronic bronchitis and emphysema. This is due to inflammation and narrowing of the airways, not an increase in their size or elasticity, nor does it improve oxygen delivery or decrease carbon dioxide levels in the lungs.

A 42-Year-Old Male Client Has a History of Smoking for 20