The forward effects in a patient with left ventricular heart failure include (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: This is not a physiological response to hydralazine. Cool extremities are a sign of poor peripheral perfusion, which can be caused by vasoconstriction, not vasodilation.

Choice B reason: This is not a physiological response to hydralazine. Increased urinary output is a sign of diuresis, which can be caused by diuretic medications, not vasodilators.

Choice C reason: This is not a physiological response to hydralazine. Pale skin is a sign of reduced blood flow to the skin, which can be caused by vasoconstriction, not vasodilation.

Choice D reason: This is a physiological response to hydralazine. Reflex tachycardia is a compensatory mechanism that occurs when the blood pressure drops due to vasodilation. The heart rate increases to maintain the cardiac output and perfusion pressure.

Choice A reason: The cells of the myocardium become hypertrophic in response to increased workload or pressure, not as a result of myocardial infarction. Hypertrophy is an adaptive mechanism that can lead to impaired ventricular function over time.

Choice B reason: The resulting hypoxia leads to ischemic injury and myocardial cell death. This is the main cause of impaired ventricular function after a myocardial infarction. The loss of viable myocardial tissue reduces the contractility and pumping ability of the heart.

Choice C reason: There is a temporary alteration in electrolyte balance that can be corrected. This is not the primary cause of impaired ventricular function after a myocardial infarction. Electrolyte imbalance can occur due to fluid loss, renal impairment, or medication side effects, but it can be managed with appropriate interventions.

Choice D reason: There is too much pressure on the heart and the ventricles begin to dysfunction. This is not the direct cause of impaired ventricular function after a myocardial infarction. Increased pressure on the heart can result from hypertension, valvular disease, or pulmonary embolism, but it is not related to myocardial ischemia or necrosis.