Which lung sound is indicated by coarse crackles in a patient with respiratory distress?

Coarse crackles are indicative of the presence of fluid or secretions in the larger airways, which aligns with the characteristics of rhonchi. This sound is typically described as a low-pitched, rattling noise that can be heard during inspiration or expiration, and it suggests conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia where mucus is present in the airway.

The other options do not accurately describe the sound being identified. Wheezing refers to a high-pitched, musical sound typically associated with narrowing of the airways, often seen in conditions like asthma or bronchospasm. Stridor is a harsh, high-pitched sound primarily heard during inspiration, usually indicating upper airway obstruction. Vesicular sounds, on the other hand, are normal breath sounds heard over healthy lung tissue, characterized by a soft, rustling quality.

In the context of respiratory distress, recognizing the presence of rhonchi through coarse crackles can help in assessing the patient's condition and determining appropriate interventions.