What is another name for rhonchal fremitus, and what does it indicate?

Rhonchal fremitus refers to a specific tactile sensation that can be felt during physical examination, typically by placing a hand on a patient's chest while they phonate, such as saying "99." It is characterized by vibrations caused by the presence of secretions in the airway. The correct choice, referring to "palpable rhonchi," directly aligns with this concept, as rhonchi are abnormal lung sounds that suggest the presence of airway secretions due to conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia.

When secretions are present, they can alter normal airflow and create vibrations that can be felt on the chest wall, hence allowing a clinician to assess the extent of these secretions through palpation. This relationship between rhonchal fremitus and airway secretions is clinically significant, as it aids healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing respiratory conditions effectively.