From the Guidelines
To better describe "wet sounds" on lung, it is essential to use specific terminology that accurately characterizes what you're hearing during auscultation, such as crackles, and document their timing, location, quality, intensity, and persistence throughout respiration. When describing wet sounds, it is crucial to identify the sounds as crackles (formerly called rales), which can be further classified as fine crackles (high-pitched, brief sounds like hair being rubbed together near your ear) or coarse crackles (lower-pitched, longer-lasting bubbling sounds) 1. Note their timing in the respiratory cycle—fine crackles typically occur during late inspiration, while coarse crackles may be heard in early inspiration. Document their location using specific anatomical landmarks (e.g., "bilateral basilar crackles" or "crackles in the right middle lobe"). Also, note whether the sounds clear with coughing, as this provides information about whether secretions can be mobilized. Include the quality (moist, bubbling, or gurgling), intensity (faint, moderate, or pronounced), and persistence throughout respiration.
Some key points to consider when describing wet sounds include:
- The presence of crackles, which are a common finding in patients with pulmonary edema, pneumonia, bronchiectasis, or pulmonary fibrosis 1
- The timing and location of the crackles, which can help differentiate between different conditions 1
- The quality and intensity of the crackles, which can provide information about the underlying cause and severity of the condition
- The presence of other symptoms, such as dyspnea, pleural pain, and fever, which can help support a diagnosis of pneumonia or other conditions 1
By using specific terminology and documenting the characteristics of the wet sounds, healthcare providers can better track disease progression and response to treatments like diuretics, antibiotics, or respiratory therapy interventions.
From the Research
Describing "Wet Sounds" on Lung
To better describe "wet sounds" on the lung, it's essential to understand the clinical context in which these sounds are heard.
- "Wet sounds" are often associated with pulmonary edema, a condition characterized by excess fluid in the lungs.
- The sounds can be described as crackles, which are high-pitched sounds heard during inhalation.
- Studies have shown that the presence and severity of crackles can be an indicator of the severity of pulmonary edema 2.
- The treatment of pulmonary edema, such as with furosemide, can lead to an improvement in symptoms, including a reduction in crackles and improvement in oxygenation 2, 3.
Clinical Assessment
When assessing "wet sounds" on the lung, clinicians should consider the following factors:
- The presence and severity of crackles, which can be an indicator of the severity of pulmonary edema.
- The patient's medical history, including any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the development of pulmonary edema.
- The results of diagnostic tests, such as chest X-rays and blood tests, which can help to confirm the diagnosis of pulmonary edema.
- The response to treatment, including the use of furosemide, which can help to improve symptoms and reduce the severity of pulmonary edema 2, 3.
Treatment and Management
The treatment and management of pulmonary edema, including the use of furosemide, can have a significant impact on the presence and severity of "wet sounds" on the lung.