A client has been smoking for the last 40 years and has a history of emphysema. Which of the following findings would the nurse not expect to find?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Emphysema is a progressive lung disease that causes destruction of the alveolar walls, resulting in decreased gas exchange and increased air trapping. This leads to decreased FVC and increased anterior-posterior chest diameter due to hyperinflation of the lungs. Pursed lip breathing is a compensatory mechanism to decrease airway resistance and maintain oxygenation. However, increased FEV1 may not be expected as it reflects the amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled in one second, and in emphysema, this is often decreased due to airway obstruction.

A Client Has Been Smoking for the Last 40 Years