What symptoms might you observe in a resident with pneumonia?

A resident with pneumonia often exhibits respiratory symptoms due to the infection and inflammation of the lungs. Shortness of breath and a persistent cough are key indicators of pneumonia, as they reflect the compromised ability of the lungs to function effectively when filled with fluid and affected by inflammation.

Shortness of breath occurs because the infection can interfere with normal breathing patterns and reduce oxygen intake. The body may struggle to expel air efficiently, leading to feelings of breathlessness.

Coughing is another primary symptom, as it serves as the body’s mechanism to clear mucus or fluid built up in the lungs due to the infection. This cough may be dry or may produce sputum, depending on the severity and progression of the pneumonia.

Swelling of the feet is not typically associated with pneumonia; rather, it may point to other health issues that do not directly relate to a respiratory condition. Therefore, the combination of shortness of breath and cough provides a clear indication of pneumonia symptoms, confirming that the correct answer encompasses both of these critical signs.