Reduction of Risk PotentialQuestion 304 of 2368
The nurse auscultates a client and hears a harsh sound over the upper airway that occurs only during inspiration. What does this finding suggest?
- Fluid collecting in the alveolar and interstitial spaces
- Inflammation of the lung pleura
- Mechanical obstruction at the level of the trachea or upper airway
- Narrowing of the small airways from bronchoconstriction
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Correct answer: Mechanical obstruction at the level of the trachea or upper airway
Stridor is heard only on inspiration. It points to mechanical obstruction of the trachea or upper airway.
Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Respiratory Assessment: ADVENTITIOUS LUNG SOUNDS. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Reduction of Risk Potential"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026