The nurse is caring for a client who has signs and symptoms of heart failure. Which of the following diagnostic tests is appropriate to assess the patient’s heart failure?
International normalized ratio (INR)
Brain natriuric peptide (BNP)
Troponin
Creatinine
The Correct Answer is B
A. International normalized ratio (INR):
INR is a test used to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy, particularly drugs like warfarin. It measures the time it takes for blood to clot. It's not directly related to assessing heart failure but is more associated with monitoring anticoagulation status.
B. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP):
BNP is a peptide released by the heart in response to increased pressure and volume in the heart, often seen in heart failure. Elevated BNP levels can indicate the presence of heart failure. It's a useful diagnostic marker for heart failure.
C. Troponin:
Troponin is a protein released into the blood when there is damage to the heart muscle, usually during a heart attack. It is not specific to heart failure but is commonly used to diagnose myocardial infarction (heart attack).
D. Creatinine:
Creatinine is a waste product that comes from the normal wear and tear on muscles. While elevated creatinine levels can be seen in conditions affecting kidney function, it's not a direct marker for assessing heart failure. However, kidney function is often evaluated in conjunction with heart failure assessments.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. “I will have canned chicken noodle soup with crackers and an apple for lunch.”
This option may not be the best choice for a low-sodium diet. Canned soups often contain high levels of sodium.
B. “I will have a tossed salad with cheese and croutons for lunch.”
This option is a better choice, as salads with fresh vegetables can be lower in sodium compared to other options.
C. “I will have a ham and cheese sandwich for lunch.”
Ham and cheese are generally high in sodium, so this would not be a suitable choice for a low-sodium diet.
D. “I will have a baked potato with broiled chicken for dinner.”
This option seems to be a good choice. Baked potato and broiled chicken can be part of a low-sodium meal.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The client now has developed a myocardial infarction:
A myocardial infarction (heart attack) is characterized by prolonged ischemia leading to damage or death of heart muscle cells. While the symptoms described could be concerning for a heart attack, the term "myocardial infarction" would typically imply a more sustained and severe ischemic event.
B. The client has developed Prinzmetal's angina:
Prinzmetal's angina, also known as variant angina, is characterized by chest pain that usually occurs at rest and is caused by vasospasm of the coronary arteries. The given scenario does not specifically describe the typical characteristics of Prinzmetal's angina.
C. The client now has stable angina:
Stable angina typically follows a predictable pattern and is relieved with rest and/or nitroglycerin. However, the scenario describes a change in the usual pattern of chest pain.
D. The client now has unstable angina:
Unstable angina is characterized by a change in the usual pattern of stable angina, often occurring at rest or with minimal exertion and not relieved by usual measures. This option seems to align with the information provided.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.