Which option indicates a favorable response to respiratory therapy in pneumonia?

• A. Lungs clear to auscultation and absence of infection
• B. Increased sputum production
• C. Elevated fever
• D. Worsening crackles

Answer: (A)

Favorable response to respiratory therapy in pneumonia is shown by clear lung sounds and signs that the infection is resolving. When treatment works, the inflammatory exudate in the airways and alveoli is cleared, air moves more freely, and adventitious sounds like crackles diminish or disappear. Fevers typically fall as the infection is controlled, and secretions decrease or normalize as healing occurs. So lungs that are clear to auscultation and show no ongoing infection best indicate improvement.

In contrast, if there is more sputum production, a fever remains elevated, or crackles worsen, these suggest ongoing inflammation or deterioration rather than a favorable response.