Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 68%
Simulated
While examining a client, the nurse observes the client's chest to be barrel-shaped. The nurse would interpret this as indicating which of the following?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: COPD. A barrel-shaped chest is a common finding in patients with COPD due to chronic hyperinflation of the lungs. This shape results from increased anterior-posterior diameter. This is caused by air trapping and hyperinflation, leading to increased lung compliance and decreased lung recoil. Pigeon Chest (A) and Funnel Chest (C) are structural deformities of the chest wall, not related to COPD. Pneumonia (B) is an acute infection of the lungs and does not cause a barrel-shaped chest.