Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

Which condition is notably associated with a characteristic "hacking" cough?

1. Smoking

2. Viral infection

3. Pleural effusion

4. Lung cancer

The correct answer is: Smoking

The condition that is notably associated with a characteristic "hacking" cough is often linked to either a chronic irritant or inflammation of the airways, commonly seen in cases involving smoking. A hacking cough typically serves as a response to airway irritation, which is prevalent in smokers due to the damaging effects of tobacco on the respiratory tract. Smoking leads to chronic bronchitis and can result in an increased production of mucus along with the irritation of the airway linings. This chronic stimulation often manifests as a severe, dry, and persistent cough that patients may describe as "hacking." In contrast, while viral infections can also cause coughing, it often presents with a productive or wet cough as well. Pleural effusion typically does not cause a cough but may be associated with difficulty breathing or pain. Lung cancer might present with a cough, but it usually takes on different characteristics and involves other symptoms such as weight loss or coughing up blood, rather than being described explicitly as "hacking." Thus, the primary association with a hacking cough points more strongly toward the effects of smoking on the respiratory system.