Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 72%
Simulated
A patient diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) asks the nurse why clubbing occurs. Which response by the nurse is the most therapeutic?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: "Your disease doesn't send enough oxygen to your fingertips." Clubbing in COPD occurs due to chronic hypoxia, leading to changes in the blood vessels and tissues of the fingertips. This explanation is therapeutic as it educates the patient about the physiological basis of clubbing in a clear and non-alarming manner.
Option A is incorrect as it inaccurately associates COPD with mental status changes. Option B is incorrect as pursed-lip breathing is a technique to manage COPD symptoms, not directly related to clubbing. Option C is incorrect as it provides inaccurate information linking COPD to heart issues rather than the hypoxia-induced clubbing.
Option A is incorrect as it inaccurately associates COPD with mental status changes. Option B is incorrect as pursed-lip breathing is a technique to manage COPD symptoms, not directly related to clubbing. Option C is incorrect as it provides inaccurate information linking COPD to heart issues rather than the hypoxia-induced clubbing.