A patient is coughing up purulent secretions. This is an indication of which of the following? Pneumothorax, Pleural effusion, Hemoptysis, Bacterial pneumonia.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking which condition is indicated by a patient coughing up purulent secretions. To answer this, we need to understand what purulent secretions signify in medical practice, leading us to recognize that this is commonly associated with bacterial infections, particularly pneumonia.
Answer
Bacterial pneumonia.
The correct answer is bacterial pneumonia.
Answer for screen readers
The correct answer is bacterial pneumonia.
More Information
Coughing up purulent (pus-like) secretions is a typical symptom of bacterial pneumonia. Pneumonia is usually caused by an infection in the lungs, leading to inflammation and the production of purulent sputum.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse purulent secretions with hemoptysis, which involves coughing up blood, not pus.
Sources
- Pneumonia Symptoms and Diagnosis | American Lung Association - lung.org
- Pneumonia: Symptoms and Signs It Is Improving - Verywell Health - verywellhealth.com
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