A client complains of difficulty breathing. What will the nurse most l

A client complains of difficulty breathing. What will the nurse most likely assess in this client?

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 is an assessment finding associated with difficulty breathing.
Rationale 2: Increased respiratory depth is an assessment finding associated with difficulty breathing.
Rationale 3: Increased respiratory rate is an assessment finding associated with difficulty breathing.
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 in conditions such as asthma. Respiratory rate is generally increased.
Rationale 5: Respiratory rate is generally increased.