The nurse is preparing to percuss the lower lobes of a client's lungs. Which percussion technique is the most appropriate for the nurse to use during this assessment?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Indirect percussion is the most appropriate technique for assessing the lungs. It involves using the middle finger of one hand to tap the finger or hand on the other hand that is placed firmly on the client's chest or back. This technique allows the nurse to assess the density of underlying tissues, such as the lungs. Direct percussion involves striking the surface of the body directly with the fingers or a percussion hammer, which is not appropriate for lung assessment. Blunt percussion involves striking the body indirectly with a blunt instrument, which is also not appropriate for lung assessment. Therefore, indirect percussion is the most appropriate technique for assessing the lungs.

The Nurse Is Preparing to Percuss the Lower Lobes of a Client's