Outcome of effective respiratory therapy?

• A. Lungs crackles on auscultation
• B. Lungs clear to auscultation and absence of infection
• C. Increased fever
• D. Worsening cough

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that effective respiratory therapy should improve airway clearance and ventilation, which we see as clear lungs on auscultation and signs that infection is resolving. When treatments like chest physiotherapy, suctioning, hydration, bronchodilators, and incentive spirometry work well, secretions are mobilized and cleared, reducing abnormal lung sounds. Clear breath sounds indicate air is moving well through the passages, and an absence of infection signs (such as fever) suggests the clinical course is improving.

Lungs crackles on auscultation would point to retained secretions or interstitial fluid, indicating imperfect clearance rather than effective therapy. Increased fever signals ongoing infection or inflammation, not a successful outcome. A worsening cough also suggests continued irritation or infection, not the desired result of therapy.