The client complains of difficulty breathing. Which assessment finding

The client complains of difficulty breathing. Which assessment findings should the nurse associate with that complaint?

1. Use of accessory muscles
2. Increased respiratory depth
3. Increased respiratory rate
4. Decreased respiratory depth
5. Decreased respiratory rate

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 4
Rationale 1: Use of accessory muscles often is an assessment finding indicating difficulty breathing.
Rationale 2: Depth is often assessed when determining difficulty breathing. The depth of respirations can be deeper (tidal volume greater than 500 mL of air) or more shallow if partial obstruction is present.
Rationale 3: Rate is assessed when determining difficulty breathing. Rate is generally increased.
Rationale 4: The depth of respirations can be deeper (tidal volume greater than 500 mL of air) or more shallow if partial obstruction is present.
Rationale 5: Rate is generally increased.