A brain (B-type) natriuretic peptide (BNP) sample has been drawn from an older adult client who has been experiencing fatigue and shortness of breath. This test will allow the care team to investigate the possibility of what diagnosis?
Pleurisy
Cardiomyopathy
Valve dysfunction
Heart failure
The Correct Answer is D
A. Pleurisy:
Pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura, which is the lining surrounding the lungs. It can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing. While pleurisy can be associated with conditions such as infections, pneumonia, or pulmonary embolism, it is not typically directly diagnosed or investigated using the brain (B-type) natriuretic peptide (BNP) test. The symptoms of pleurisy may include chest pain, especially with deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing.
B. Cardiomyopathy:
Cardiomyopathy refers to diseases of the heart muscle, which can lead to impaired heart function. Cardiomyopathy can cause symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fluid retention. While elevated BNP levels can be observed in some cases of cardiomyopathy, the BNP test is not specific to cardiomyopathy alone. It is often used to assess and diagnose heart failure, a condition that can result from various cardiac abnormalities, including cardiomyopathy.
C. Valve Dysfunction:
Valve dysfunction refers to abnormalities or malfunctions of the heart valves, such as stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage). Valve dysfunction can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations, and fatigue. While valve dysfunction can contribute to heart failure by causing pressure and volume overload on the heart chambers, the BNP test is primarily used to assess heart failure itself rather than specifically identifying valve dysfunction.
D. Heart Failure:
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs. It can cause symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, fluid retention (edema), and exercise intolerance. Elevated BNP levels are commonly observed in patients with heart failure, especially in cases of acute exacerbations or decompensated heart failure. The BNP test is used to assess and diagnose heart failure, as higher BNP levels indicate increased cardiac stress and volume overload.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Work together to see how they can incorporate healthier choices into the foods enjoyed:
This approach emphasizes collaboration between the nurse and the client, focusing on finding ways to incorporate healthier food choices into the client's diet while considering their food preferences and cultural background. By working together, the nurse can help the client identify suitable substitutions, portion control strategies, and meal planning techniques that align with the dietary recommendations for coronary heart disease. This approach promotes active participation, empowers the client to make informed decisions, and increases the likelihood of long-term adherence to the dietary plan.
B. Tell the client if they do not change their diet, they are going to have a myocardial infarction:
This approach uses fear tactics or negative consequences to motivate behavior change, which is generally not recommended in healthcare settings. Fear-based strategies may lead to increased anxiety, stress, or resistance in the client, ultimately hindering motivation and adherence to the dietary plan. Positive reinforcement, education, and collaborative goal-setting are more effective in promoting behavior change and improving adherence to lifestyle modifications.
C. Give the client a list of foods to choose from:
Providing a list of foods can be a helpful tool in guiding food choices and promoting a balanced diet. However, this approach may not address the client's individual preferences, cultural considerations, or practical challenges in implementing dietary changes. Without personalized guidance and support, the client may struggle to navigate food options effectively and may experience difficulties in adhering to the dietary recommendations.
D. It is okay to cheat because of the medications:
Encouraging cheating or deviating from the dietary plan due to medications undermines the importance of dietary modifications in managing coronary heart disease. It is essential to emphasize the significance of following a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle, as medications alone may not be sufficient to manage the condition effectively. Providing education on medication adherence and dietary guidelines, along with ongoing support, helps reinforce the importance of consistent dietary habits in promoting cardiovascular health.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Sinus bradycardia: Sinus bradycardia is characterized by a regular rhythm with a heart rate less than 60 beats per minute. In this case, the heart rate is 64 beats per minute, which falls within the normal range, not consistent with sinus bradycardia.
B. Sinus arrhythmia: Sinus arrhythmia typically presents as a variation in the R-R interval with respiration, often seen as an irregularity in the heart rate. The provided characteristics describe a regular rhythm, so sinus arrhythmia is not the correct interpretation.
C. Sinus tachycardia: Sinus tachycardia is characterized by a regular rhythm with a heart rate greater than 100 beats per minute. The heart rate in this case is 64 beats per minute, which is not indicative of sinus tachycardia.
D. Normal sinus rhythm: Normal sinus rhythm refers to a regular rhythm with a heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute, P waves preceding each QRS complex, a normal PR interval (0.12 to 0.20 seconds), and normal QRS complex duration (less than 0.12 seconds). The provided characteristics, including regular P waves, regular QRS complexes, a PR interval of 0.16 seconds, and a heart rate of 64 beats per minute, align with a normal sinus rhythm interpretation.
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