Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

Rhonchi are characterized by low-pitched, snore-like sounds that occur when airflow is obstructed in the larger airways, usually due to mucus or other secretions. While pneumonia is often accompanied by rhonchi because of the presence of fluid or inflammation in the airways, it is not the only condition that can cause this clinical sign. Common conditions where rhonchi are often present include aspiration, where foreign materials enter the airways leading to obstruction; chronic bronchitis, which involves ongoing inflammation and mucus production in the airways; and emphysema, a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease that can result in airflow limitation and associated sounds in the lungs. Recognizing rhonchi during auscultation can provide valuable insights into a patient's respiratory condition and help guide appropriate treatment strategies across these various conditions.