Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

What is the most common manifestation of infection in a patient with pulmonary disease?

1. Cough

2. Increased sputum production

3. Fever

4. Diaphoresis

The correct answer is: Fever

The most common manifestation of infection in a patient with pulmonary disease is often fever. Fever serves as a systemic response to infection, indicating that the body is fighting off a pathogen. In patients with pulmonary disease, the presence of fever can suggest an exacerbation of their condition or a new infection, such as pneumonia. While other symptoms like cough, increased sputum production, and diaphoresis can also occur in pulmonary infections, fever is generally a more direct and common systemic response seen in these patients. It reflects the body's immune response and can help clinicians determine the severity of the infection and guide treatment decisions. Recognizing fever as a key indicator helps with the overall assessment of a patient's status, particularly in those with compromised respiratory systems, where timely intervention can be crucial for outcomes.