The nurse is observing the respiratory effort of a client, and notes that the client's intercostal spaces are retracting on inspiration. The nurse will assess the client for the presence of which condition(s)? Select All That Apply

A. Thoracic muscle tenderness is not directly associated with intercostal retraction. Muscle tenderness may occur due to overuse or strain but does not cause the retraction of the intercostal spaces. It is more related to musculoskeletal issues rather than respiratory conditions. B. Barrel chest refers to an increased anterior-posterior chest diameter, often seen in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema. While barrel chest can indicate chronic lung conditions that might cause respiratory distress, it does not directly cause intercostal retraction. C. Pectus excavatum, or "funnel chest," is a congenital deformity where the sternum is depressed inward, giving the chest a sunken appearance. However, pectus excavatum itself does not directly cause retractions but can be associated with increased respiratory effort. D. Atelectasis refers to the collapse of part or all of a lung, leading to decreased lung volume. This condition often results in increased respiratory effort and can be associated with intercostal retractions as the body struggles to expand the collapsed lung areas and improve ventilation. E. Obstruction of the airways, such as from a foreign body, mucus plug, or severe bronchoconstriction, can lead to increased respiratory effort as the client tries to overcome the obstruction. This increased effort often results in visible signs of respiratory distress, including intercostal retraction.