Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

Which finding would be unexpected in a patient with chronic bronchitis?

1. Wheezing and bronchi upon auscultation

2. Dry cough with little sputum production

3. Cyanosis

4. Hypercapnia and respiratory acidosis

The correct answer is: Dry cough with little sputum production

In patients with chronic bronchitis, one would typically expect to see a productive cough that is accompanied by sputum production, often due to inflammation and mucus hypersecretion. A dry cough with little to no sputum is therefore unexpected, as this condition is characterized by a consistent presence of mucus and phlegm due to airway obstruction and irritation. Wheezing and rales, as well as cyanosis and hypercapnia, are common findings in chronic bronchitis due to the narrowed airways and impaired gas exchange that occur. The presence of respiratory acidosis can also be expected, as the reduced airflow leads to an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the body. These traits reflect the pathophysiology of chronic bronchitis, where inflammation and obstruction in the airways lead to changes in respiratory function and gas exchange.