A nurse is explaining the pathophysiology of pulmonary edema to a group of nursing students. Which physiological mechanism underlies the development of pulmonary edema?
Increased lung compliance
Impaired alveolar fluid clearance
Constricted pulmonary blood vessels
Enhanced left ventricular contractility
The Correct Answer is B
A) Incorrect. Increased lung compliance would not contribute to pulmonary edema; in fact, it might reduce the risk of fluid accumulation in the lungs.
B) Correct. Impaired alveolar fluid clearance, often due to altered pulmonary capillary permeability, is a key factor in the pathophysiology of pulmonary edema.
C) Incorrect. Constricted pulmonary blood vessels (vasoconstriction) would reduce blood flow to the lungs and are not a primary factor in pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Enhanced left ventricular contractility, while beneficial for cardiac function, is not directly related to the development of pulmonary edema.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct. Serum creatinine levels can be elevated in cases of heart failure-related pulmonary edema, indicating impaired kidney function due to reduced cardiac output.
B) Incorrect. Blood glucose levels may be elevated in some individuals with diabetes but are not directly related to pulmonary edema.
C) Incorrect. Hemoglobin levels are not typically used to diagnose pulmonary edema; they are more related to oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood.
D) Incorrect. Serum potassium levels may be influenced by various factors but are not a primary indicator of pulmonary edema.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct. Pink, frothy sputum, often described as "pink froth," is indicative of severe pulmonary edema with the presence of blood-tinged fluid in the alveoli.
B) Incorrect. A low-grade fever is not a typical sign of pulmonary edema and may indicate another underlying condition.
C) Incorrect. Clear breath sounds throughout the lung fields are not indicative of severe pulmonary edema, which often presents with crackles.
D) Incorrect. The absence of peripheral edema does not necessarily reflect the severity of pulmonary edema; it may be related to factors other than heart failure.
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