A client with pulmonary edema complains of a feeling of "suffocation." Which physiological mechanism contributes to this sensation in pulmonary edema?
Hyperventilation leading to respiratory alkalosis
Reduced cardiac output resulting in bradycardia
Impaired oxygen diffusion causing hypoxemia
Elevated blood pressure and hypertension
The Correct Answer is C
A) Incorrect. Hyperventilation leading to respiratory alkalosis may occur in response to respiratory distress but is not the primary cause of the sensation of "suffocation."
B) Incorrect. Reduced cardiac output may be a consequence of pulmonary edema, but it does not typically result in bradycardia, nor is it the primary cause of the sensation described.
C) Correct. In pulmonary edema, fluid accumulation in the alveoli impairs oxygen diffusion, leading to hypoxemia, which contributes to the sensation of "suffocation."
D) Incorrect. Elevated blood pressure and hypertension can be associated with heart failure but are not the primary factors contributing to the sensation of "suffocation" in pulmonary edema.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Regular physical exercise is generally a healthy behavior and is not a risk factor for pulmonary edema.
B) Incorrect. Low blood pressure (hypotension) is not a risk factor for pulmonary edema; in fact, high blood pressure (hypertension) is a more common risk factor.
C) Incorrect. Adequate fluid intake is important for overall health but is not a direct risk factor for pulmonary edema.
D) Correct. Chronic kidney disease can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, which can contribute to the development of pulmonary edema.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct. Increased hydrostatic pressure in pulmonary capillaries, often due to left ventricular failure, leads to the filtration of fluid from the capillaries into the alveoli and interstitial spaces, causing pulmonary edema.
B) Incorrect. Decreased capillary permeability is not typically a primary factor in the development of pulmonary edema.
C) Incorrect. Enhanced lymphatic drainage from the lungs is not a primary mechanism responsible for the accumulation of fluid in pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Elevated colloid osmotic pressure in pulmonary vessels would oppose fluid accumulation in the alveoli and is not a primary cause of pulmonary edema.
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