Questions: Mrs. Isaac comes to the emergency department complaining of difficulty breathing. An objective finding of dyspnea might include:
Use of accessory muscles of respiration
Transcript text: Mrs. Isaac comes to the emergency department complaining of difficulty breathing. An objective finding of dyspnea might include:
Use of accessory muscles of respiration
Solution
The answer is the first one: Use of accessory muscles of respiration.
Explanation for each option:
Use of accessory muscles of respiration: This is an objective finding. It can be observed by a healthcare provider and indicates that the patient is using additional muscles (such as those in the neck and shoulders) to help with breathing, which is a common sign of dyspnea.
Statements about a sense of impending doom: This is a subjective finding. It is based on the patient's personal feelings and cannot be objectively measured or observed by a healthcare provider.
Complaints of shortness of breath: This is also a subjective finding. It is based on the patient's report of their experience and cannot be directly observed by others.
Feelings of heaviness in the chest: This is another subjective finding. It is based on the patient's personal sensation and cannot be objectively measured or observed.
In summary, the use of accessory muscles of respiration is an observable, objective finding that can indicate dyspnea, making it the correct answer.