When assessing a preschooler's chest,what should the nurse expect?
A) Respiratory movements to be chiefly thoracic
B) Anteroposterior diameter to be equal to the transverse diameter
C) Retraction of the muscles between the ribs on respiratory movement
D) Movement of the chest wall to be symmetric bilaterally and coordinated with breathing

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Movement of the chest wall should be symmetric bilaterally and coordinated with breathing.In children younger than 6 or 7 years,respiratory movement is principally abdominal or diaphragmatic.The anteroposterior diameter is equal to the transverse diameter during infancy.As the child grows,the chest increases in the transverse direction,so that the anteroposterior diameter is less than the lateral diameter.Retractions of the muscles between the ribs on respiratory movement are indicative of respiratory distress.

When Assessing a Preschooler's Chest,what Should the Nurse Expect