NAECB Signs & Symptoms Of Asthma 2

Question 1

Which characteristic of asthma wheezing helps distinguish it from other respiratory conditions?

Accepted Answer

It is typically polyphonic and diffuse

Answer

Asthma wheezing is typically polyphonic (multiple pitches) and diffuse, reflecting widespread airway narrowing throughout the lungs.

Question 2

A patient reports that symptoms worsen when exposed to cold air and improve in warm, humid environments. This pattern is MOST consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Allergic asthma triggered by temperature

Answer

Cold, dry air is a known non-allergic trigger that causes airway hyperresponsiveness, and symptom relief in warm, humid air supports an asthma diagnosis.

Question 3

Which sign indicates increased work of breathing in a pediatric asthma patient?

Accepted Answer

Intercostal retractions

Answer

Intercostal retractions indicate accessory muscle use and increased negative intrathoracic pressure, signaling significant respiratory distress in children.

Question 4

A patient with asthma develops a 'silent chest' during an acute attack. This finding indicates:

Accepted Answer

Severe obstruction with minimal air movement

Answer

A silent chest in an asthma attack is an ominous sign indicating such severe obstruction that there is insufficient airflow to generate wheeze.

Question 5

Which symptom pattern is MOST characteristic of nocturnal asthma?

Accepted Answer

Coughing and wheezing that wake the patient between 2–4 AM

Answer

Nocturnal asthma classically causes symptoms in the early morning hours (2–4 AM) due to circadian dips in cortisol and epinephrine and increased airway inflammation.

NAECB Exam Practice Test

NAECB Exam Practice Test

NAECB Signs & Symptoms Of Asthma 2