MEDizzy - A client with emphysema experiences a sudden episode of

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Respiratory System

A client with emphysema experiences a sudden episode of shortness of breath and is diagnosed with a spontaneous pneumothorax. The client asks, “How could this have happened?” What likely cause of the spontaneous pneumothorax should the nurse’s response take into consideration?

ExplanationC. The etiology of a spontaneous pneumothorax is commonly the rupture of blebs on the lung surface. Blebs are similar to blisters, but are filled with air. A. Pleural friction rub results in pain on inspiration, not a pneumothorax. B. A tracheoesophageal fistula causes aspiration of food and saliva, resulting in respiratory distress. 4 The client has no history of trauma.