During a respiratory assessment, a patient with emphysema typically presents with what characteristic feature?

In patients with emphysema, the characteristic feature that is often observed during a respiratory assessment is decreased lung sounds. This decrease in lung sounds occurs because emphysema leads to the destruction of alveoli, resulting in reduced surface area for gas exchange. As the disease progresses, the lungs become hyperinflated, which can also result in diminished airflow. Consequently, the transmission of breath sounds through the lung tissue can decrease, making lung sounds less audible during auscultation.

In emphysema, the loss of elasticity in the lung tissue contributes to air trapping, which can further attenuate respiratory sounds. While wheezing can be present during exacerbations, especially if there are airway obstructions or bronchospasm, the hallmark in a stable patient with emphysema is more often the notable decrease in overall lung sounds.