Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 68%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who experienced a lacerated spleen and has been on bedrest for several days. The nurse auscultates decreased breath sounds in the lower lobes of both lungs. The nurse should realize that this finding is most likely an indication of which of the following conditions?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Atelectasis refers to the collapse or closure of a part of the lung, leading to decreased air entry and breath sounds in the affected area. In a client who has been on bedrest for several days, atelectasis can occur due to reduced lung expansion and ventilation.