A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has infective endocarditis. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse identify as a complication of this disorder?
Dyspnea
Fever
Petechiae
A heart murmur
The Correct Answer is A
A. Dyspnea can indicate heart failure or embolic events resulting from infective endocarditis, making it a serious complication that warrants attention.
B. Fever is a common symptom of infective endocarditis due to the infection but is not a complication; rather, it is part of the disease process.
C. Petechiae are small red or purple spots that can occur with infective endocarditis but are also not considered a complication, rather a manifestation of the condition.
D. A heart murmur may be present due to valvular damage but is not classified as a complication; it is a common finding in infective endocarditis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Documenting the findings and continuing the visit does not address the potential seriousness of the weight gain and edema in a patient with heart failure. It is important to act promptly on such findings.
B. Notifying the RN case manager of the change in status is essential because a weight gain of this magnitude, along with generalized edema, may indicate worsening heart failure. This requires a timely assessment and possible adjustment of the treatment plan, including medication and fluid management.
C. While reinforcing the importance of daily weights is beneficial for long-term management, it is not an immediate intervention for the acute change in the patient’s condition.
D. Ensuring the client has been taking their prescribed diuretic is important, but the nurse should first communicate the significant changes to the RN case manager for further evaluation and intervention, as this might require a medication review or adjustment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Nicardipine is a calcium channel blocker primarily used to manage blood pressure but does not directly reduce ICP.
B. Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant used to prevent seizures, which may occur after a hemorrhage, but it does not address increased ICP.
C. Dopamine is used to increase blood pressure and cardiac output but does not play a role in reducing ICP.
D. Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic that helps decrease ICP by drawing fluid from brain tissue into the bloodstream, thus relieving pressure within the skull. It is the most appropriate intervention for managing increased ICP.
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