An older adult client with a history of heart failure (HF) is brought to the clinic by a family member. Which finding(s) confirm to the nurse that the client is experiencing an exacerbation of the HF? Select all that apply.
Jugular venous distension.
Peripheral edema.
Dyspnea.
Intercostal retractions.
Headaches.
Correct Answer : A,B,C
Choice A Reason:
Jugular venous distension is correct. Jugular venous distension is a common sign of fluid overload and increased central venous pressure, which occur during exacerbations of heart failure. It indicates impaired cardiac function and elevated systemic venous pressure.
Choice B Reason:
Peripheral edema is correct. Peripheral edema, particularly in the lower extremities, is a classic manifestation of fluid retention and congestion in heart failure exacerbations. It results from increased capillary hydrostatic pressure and impaired fluid reabsorption by the kidneys.
Choice C Reason:
Dyspnea is correct. Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is a hallmark symptom of heart failure exacerbations. It occurs due to pulmonary congestion resulting from fluid accumulation in the lungs, impairing gas exchange and leading to difficulty breathing.
Choice D Reason:
Intercostal retraction is not typically associated with exacerbations of heart failure. Intercostal retractions indicate increased work of breathing and respiratory distress, which may occur in conditions such as severe respiratory infections or asthma exacerbations, but are not specific to heart failure exacerbations.
Choice E Reason:
Headaches are not typically associated with exacerbations of heart failure. Headaches can have various causes, including tension, migraines, or sinus congestion, but they are not commonly observed as a direct manifestation of heart failure exacerbations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Get the most difficult questions over with first is not the best approach because starting with the most difficult questions may put the client on the defensive or make them feel uncomfortable, hindering open communication. It's important to build rapport and establish trust with the client before addressing sensitive topics.
Choice B Reason:
Asking questions in a vague, non-specific format is not effective because vague and non-specific questions may result in ambiguous or incomplete responses, making it difficult to gather accurate information about the client's alcohol and substance use. Clear and specific questions are necessary to obtain relevant details.
Choice C Reason:
Sharing personal values to put the client at ease is not recommended as it can compromise the nurse's professional boundaries and may influence the client's responses. The focus of the interview should be on the client, and the nurse should maintain a neutral and non-judgmental stance.
Choice D Reason:
Begin with questions that are less sensitive in nature is the best approach because it allows the nurse to establish rapport and build trust with the client before addressing more sensitive topics such as alcohol and substance use. Starting with less threatening questions helps the client feel more comfortable and willing to disclose information, facilitating open communication and rapport-building.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
During an abdominal assessment, the client's pain and abrupt cessation of inhalation during deep palpation, especially when accompanied by a high fever (103° F or 39.4° C), is indicative of potential peritonitis or an acute abdomen condition (e.g., appendicitis).Keeping the client NPO (nothing by mouth) is crucial to prepare them for potential emergency surgical intervention. Eating or drinking could complicate anesthesia and the surgical procedure.
Choice B Reason:
Electrocardiogram is incorrect. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may be indicated to assess cardiac function and rule out cardiac causes of chest pain or discomfort, particularly if there are associated symptoms such as shortness of breath or palpitations. However, in this scenario, the client's symptoms (abdominal pain, sudden cessation of inhalation during deep palpation, and elevated temperature) suggest a more immediate concern related to the abdominal condition rather than a primary cardiac issue.
Choice C Reason:
This is important for overall patient monitoring, but it is not the immediate priority for managing acute abdominal pain with suspected peritonitis.
Choice D Reason:
Complete bed rest is incorrect. Complete bed rest may be recommended in some cases of acute illness or injury to promote healing and prevent further exacerbation of symptoms. However, in this scenario, the client's symptoms suggest a potentially serious abdominal condition requiring further assessment and intervention beyond bed rest alone.
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