What primarily causes rhonchi sounds?

What primarily causes rhonchi sounds?

• A. Air passing through mucus
• B. Fluid accumulation in lungs
• C. Foreign body obstruction
• D. Airway inflammation

Answer: (A)

Rhonchi sounds, which are often described as a low-pitched, wheezing or snoring quality, primarily occur due to air passing through mucus that has accumulated in the airways. This can happen in conditions such as bronchitis or certain types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) where secretions obstruct airflow, creating turbulent sounds. When air flows through narrowed or obstructed airways filled with secretions, it causes vibrations of the airway walls. This results in the characteristic sound associated with rhonchi. Recognizing this can help nurses assess the severity of airway obstruction and determine the need for treatments aimed at clearing mucus, thereby improving airway patency and respiratory function. Understanding the underlying cause of the sounds can guide effective interventions, such as administering bronchodilators or mucolytics, and alerting healthcare providers to the patient's respiratory status.

Rhonchi sounds, which are often described as a low-pitched, wheezing or snoring quality, primarily occur due to air passing through mucus that has accumulated in the airways. This can happen in conditions such as bronchitis or certain types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) where secretions obstruct airflow, creating turbulent sounds.

When air flows through narrowed or obstructed airways filled with secretions, it causes vibrations of the airway walls. This results in the characteristic sound associated with rhonchi. Recognizing this can help nurses assess the severity of airway obstruction and determine the need for treatments aimed at clearing mucus, thereby improving airway patency and respiratory function. Understanding the underlying cause of the sounds can guide effective interventions, such as administering bronchodilators or mucolytics, and alerting healthcare providers to the patient's respiratory status.