ATI Swift River Test Practice Exam

An increased respiratory rate accompanied by wheezing is a significant assessment finding that suggests a respiratory infection. An elevation in the respiratory rate, or tachypnea, often indicates that the body is trying to compensate for inadequate gas exchange, commonly seen in respiratory infections.

Wheezing, which is a high-pitched whistling sound made while breathing, typically indicates airway constriction or obstruction. This could occur due to inflammation, mucus production, or bronchoconstriction, all of which can be present in respiratory conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia. The combination of these two signs—an increased respiratory rate and wheezing—strongly points toward an underlying respiratory issue, such as an infection, making this finding significant in a clinical context.

In contrast, decreased respiratory rate with coughing may suggest a different issue or compensation, and stable respiratory function and clear lung sounds are generally indicative of normal respiratory health. These findings do not align with those associated with respiratory infections.