Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

Which respiratory sound is indicative of narrowing of the airway?

1. Wheezing

2. Stridor

3. Rhonchi

4. Both A and B

The correct answer is: Both A and B

Wheezing and stridor are both respiratory sounds that indicate narrowing of the airway, making the answer encompassing both options A and B accurate. Wheezing is typically a high-pitched sound produced when air flows through narrowed airways, often associated with conditions like asthma or bronchospasm. It is most commonly heard during expiration but can sometimes be present during inspiration as well. This sound reflects the constriction and inflammation present in the smaller bronchioles. Stridor, on the other hand, is a high-pitched sound occurring during inspiration, and it results from obstruction or narrowing of the upper airway, such as from conditions like croup or anaphylaxis. Stridor indicates significant airway compromise and requires immediate attention due to its association with upper airway pathology. Both of these sounds highlight the presence of airway narrowing and serve as important indicators for healthcare providers in assessing respiratory distress and potential emergencies. Therefore, recognizing either wheezing or stridor can guide clinical decision-making and treatment.