In the context of a 65-year-old male patient diagnosed with chronic pulmonary disease and elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, which type of heart failure should the nurse assess for in this patient?

Choice A rationale
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. While it can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease due to systemic inflammation, it is not typically considered a direct cause of secondary hypertension.
Choice B rationale
Coarctation of the aorta, a congenital condition characterized by a narrowing of the aorta, can cause secondary hypertension. This is because the narrowing can increase resistance to blood flow, leading to increased pressure.
Choice C rationale
Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) can cause secondary hypertension as part of Cushing’s reflex, a physiological response to protect the brain from damage. This reflex can lead to an increase in systemic blood pressure in an attempt to maintain cerebral perfusion.
Choice D rationale
Renal disease is a common cause of secondary hypertension. The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure, and damage to the kidneys can lead to hypertension.
Choice E rationale
Colon cancer is not typically associated with secondary hypertension. While some cancers can produce substances that increase blood pressure, colon cancer is not commonly associated with this phenomenon.

Choice A rationale
Digoxin slows the heart rate and increases the force of heart contractions, which can be beneficial in heart failure. However, if the pulse is below 60 beats/min, taking digoxin could further slow the heart rate and potentially lead to bradycardia.
Choice B rationale
Nausea can be a side effect of digoxin and hydrochlorothiazide. If the patient develops nausea, they should notify their healthcare provider as this could indicate that the medication dose needs adjustment.
Choice C rationale
Hydrochlorothiazide can cause the body to lose potassium, so limiting dietary intake of potassium could potentially lead to hypokalemia, a condition characterized by low potassium levels in the blood.
Choice D rationale
Taking hydrochlorothiazide at bedtime could potentially lead to nocturia, which is the need to wake up at night to urinate. This could disrupt the patient’s sleep.