Chest x-rays are an invaluable diagnostic tool as they can help identify common respiratory disorders such as
pneumonia, pleural effusion, and tumors, as well as cardiovascular disorders such as an enlarged heart and
heart failure. As an advanced practice nurse, it is important that you are able to differentiate a normal x-ray
from an abnormal x-ray in order to identify these disorders. The ability to articulate the results of a chest x-ray
with the physician, radiologist, and patient is an essential skill when facilitating care in a clinical setting. In this
Discussion, you practice your interprofessional collaboration skills as you interpret chest x-rays and exchange
feedback with your colleagues.
Consider the patient case study and x-ray:
Case Study 2
This is a 44-year-old Caucasian male being seen at your clinics with complaints of complaints of cough for 4
days and worsening. Stated he has had high grade fever. States he feels weak and has been in bed most of
the last two days. Complains of exertional dyspnea, followed by dyspnea at rest, non-productive cough and
pleuritic chest pain
• MEDS: Zovirax, Diflucan, magic mouth wash, Zofran, mycostatin, filgrastin
PMH: HTN, Hep C, HIV/AIDS, thrush
SH: Past IV Drug abuse; lives in a group home;
PE: VS: Ht: 5’7, Wt: 150#, BMI 23,
Anorexic male, febrile, tachypneic, tachycardic, with rales and rhonchi. You note decreased in breath sounds,
dullness, and egophony
Post an explanation of the primary diagnosis, as well as 3 differential diagnoses, for the patient in the case
study you were assigned. Describe the role the patient history and physical exam played in the diagnosis.
Then, suggest potential treatment options based on your patient diagnosis.
Sample Solution