A nurse is collecting data from a client who has emphysema. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A. Clubbing of the fingers: Chronic hypoxia in clients with emphysema can lead to clubbing of the fingers, a thickening and rounding of the fingertips. This is a common long-term manifestation of chronic respiratory diseases. B. Bradycardia: Emphysema typically does not cause bradycardia. Clients may experience tachycardia due to hypoxia and increased work of breathing, rather than a slow heart rate. C. Barrel chest: Barrel chest is a classic finding in emphysema caused by hyperinflation of the lungs. The anterior-posterior diameter of the chest increases, giving a rounded appearance. D. Dyspnea: Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is a hallmark symptom of emphysema. It occurs due to decreased lung elasticity, alveolar damage, and impaired gas exchange. E. Shallow respirations: Clients with emphysema often develop prolonged expiratory phases with deep, labored respirations rather than shallow breathing. Shallow respirations are not a typical finding.