In a client with emphysema, high-pitched whistling sounds heard over all lung fields are described as which term?

• A. Rhonchi
• B. Wheezing
• C. Crackles
• D. Stridor

Answer: (B)

High-pitched, musical whistling sounds heard across the lungs indicate wheezing. This happens when airways are narrowed or constricted, causing turbulent airflow that produces that distinctive high-pitched tone. In emphysema, airway narrowing from inflammation and loss of elasticity leads to widespread wheeze as air moves through constricted bronchioles, often more evident during expiration. The other sounds don’t fit as well: crackles are popping sounds from fluid or reopening of airways, rhonchi are lower-pitched and snoring-like due to secretions, and stridor is a harsh, often inspiratory sound from upper airway obstruction.