A nurse is caring for a client with a diagnosis of left-sided heart failure. The nurse expects what assessment findings associated with left-sided heart failure? (Select All that Apply.)
Ascites
Edema in the legs and feet
Crackles in the lungs
Confusion
Exertional dyspnea
Correct Answer : C,D,E
A. Ascites is more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure. Right-sided failure leads to systemic congestion, causing fluid accumulation in the abdomen.
B. Edema in the legs and feet is a symptom of right-sided heart failure. Left-sided failure primarily affects the lungs, while right-sided failure leads to peripheral edema.
C. Crackles in the lungs are expected in left-sided heart failure. Pulmonary congestion results from blood backing up into the lungs, leading to fluid accumulation in the alveoli.
D. Confusion can occur due to decreased cardiac output and poor oxygenation to the brain. Clients with severe heart failure may experience cognitive changes or altered mental status.
E. Exertional dyspnea is a hallmark of left-sided heart failure. The inability of the left ventricle to pump effectively leads to pulmonary congestion, making breathing difficult during physical activity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Delivering a continuous flow of air pressure to keep the airway open is correct. CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) prevents airway collapse during sleep, allowing for uninterrupted breathing and oxygenation.
B. Reducing daytime sleepiness is a benefit of CPAP use, but it is not its primary purpose—it is a secondary effect of improved oxygenation and sleep continuity.
C. Improving sleep quality also occurs with CPAP therapy, but this is an outcome rather than the primary purpose.
D. Promoting weight loss is not the function of CPAP therapy, though weight loss can help reduce OSA severity.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A complete occlusion of the coronary artery is characteristic of an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), not an NSTEMI.
B. Chest pain that resolves with rest is more indicative of stable angina rather than NSTEMI.
C. An NSTEMI occurs due to a partial occlusion of a coronary artery, leading to myocardial ischemia and damage without ST-segment elevation on an ECG.
D. Chest pain at rest can be seen in both unstable angina and NSTEMI, but it is not the defining feature of NSTEMI.
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