When evaluating respiratory distress in a patient, which examination technique is most useful?

• A. Inspector body language
• B. Palpation of the abdomen
• C. Auscultation of lung sounds
• D. Measuring blood pressure

Answer: (C)

Auscultation of lung sounds is the most useful examination technique when evaluating respiratory distress in a patient. This technique involves using a stethoscope to listen to the sounds made by the lungs during breathing. By auscultating the lungs, healthcare providers can identify abnormal sounds such as wheezing, crackles, or decreased breath sounds, which can indicate issues like asthma, pneumonia, or airway obstruction. Listening to lung sounds provides direct information about the patient's respiratory status and helps in formulating a diagnosis and treatment plan.

The other techniques mentioned, while important in a comprehensive assessment, do not provide as direct or specific information about respiratory issues. For example, observing body language might give clues about the patient’s overall distress but lacks the specificity required for respiratory evaluation. Palpation of the abdomen focuses more on gastrointestinal issues and would not provide relevant data on respiratory function. Measuring blood pressure is crucial for assessing cardiovascular status but does not directly inform about respiratory issues. Therefore, auscultation is the key technique in properly evaluating respiratory distress.