PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is a common physical examination finding associated with pleural effusion?

1. Cyanosis

2. Decreased breath sounds

3. Increased tactile fremitus

4. Hyper-resonance

The correct answer is: Decreased breath sounds

Decreased breath sounds are a common physical examination finding associated with pleural effusion. When a pleural effusion occurs, fluid accumulates in the pleural space, which can inhibit the transmission of sound from underlying lung tissue to the chest wall. This results in diminished or absent breath sounds upon auscultation over the area of the effusion. In a clinical context, when a healthcare provider assesses a patient suspected of having pleural effusion, they may use a stethoscope to listen to the lungs. The presence of fluid alters the normal air-filled lung sounds, leading to a notable reduction or absence of sound, particularly over the area affected by the effusion. This finding is important because it guides further diagnostic considerations, such as imaging studies (like ultrasound or chest X-ray) to confirm the presence and extent of the effusion. Understanding this symptom is crucial for recognizing the potential need for therapeutic procedures, such as thoracentesis, for fluid drainage.