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 D
Explanation
A. Furosemide 10mg IV bolus every 12 hours:
Furosemide is a loop diuretic commonly used in heart failure management to reduce fluid overload. The prescribed dose of 10 mg IV bolus every 12 hours is within the typical range for furosemide administration in acute heart failure.
B. Morphine sulfate 2 mg IV bolus every 2 hr PRN pain:
Morphine sulfate is often used in the management of acute pain, including pain associated with myocardial infarction. The prescribed dose of 2 mg IV bolus every 2 hours PRN for pain is appropriate and aligns with standard pain management protocols.
C. Laboratory testing of serum potassium upon admission:
It is common practice to perform laboratory testing, including serum potassium levels, upon admission for clients with acute heart failure, especially if they are receiving diuretics or other medications that can affect electrolyte balance. This prescription is appropriate and necessary for monitoring the client's condition.
D. 0.9% normal saline IV at 150 mL/hr continuous:
This prescription raises a concern because administering 0.9% normal saline at a rate of 150 mL/hr continuously may lead to fluid overload in a client with acute heart failure. The rate of IV fluid administration should be carefully assessed based on the client's fluid status, renal function, and hemodynamic parameters to avoid exacerbating heart failure symptoms.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Yes. Hypertension is prevalent among men; it is fortunate we caught this during your routine examination.": This response is premature as it assumes a diagnosis of hypertension based on a single elevated blood pressure reading without further assessment or confirmation.
B. "We will need to reevaluate your blood pressure because age places you at high risk for hypertension.": While age is a risk factor for hypertension, it is important not to jump to conclusions based on one blood pressure reading. Reevaluation and monitoring are necessary before making any definitive diagnoses or treatment decisions.
C. "A single elevated blood pressure does not confirm hypertension. You will need to have your blood pressure reassessed several times before a diagnosis can be made.": This response is appropriate because it acknowledges the need for further assessment and monitoring before determining if the client has hypertension. It also educates the client about the importance of multiple readings for an accurate diagnosis.
D. "You have no need to worry. Your pressure is probably elevated because you are being tested.": This response dismisses the client's concerns and does not provide accurate information about blood pressure assessment and hypertension diagnosis.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.