What is an expected finding for a fractured rib?

• A. Pain especially with inspiration
• B. Fever and chills
• C. Palpitations
• D. Jaundice

Answer: (A)

Pain with inspiration is the hallmark finding because the rib fracture irritates the periosteum and the pleura as the chest wall expands with breathing. This makes the injured area painfully sensitive whenever the lungs take a deep breath, coughing, or the chest moves. The result is pleuritic, sharp chest pain that is localized and worsened by inspiration. To avoid the pain, the patient tends to take shallow breaths, which can lead to reduced lung expansion and risk of atelectasis or pneumonia if not managed with adequate analgesia and breathing exercises. Fever and chills don’t fit with a simple fracture, as they suggest infection; palpitations and jaundice aren’t typical features of rib injury.