The nurse is caring for a client who is in the later stages of left-sided heart failure. Which chief complaint would the nurse expect the client to report?

Marked limitation with physical activity but comfortable at rest

Angioedema and urticaria

Increased urine output

Chest pain during sleep that is relieved with nitroglycerin

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   Clients with left-sided heart failure often experience symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention, which limit physical activity. However, they may still feel relatively comfortable when resting.
B.   These symptoms are more commonly associated with allergic reactions or side effects of medications (such as ACE inhibitors) rather than heart failure.
C.   This is not typical in the later stages of left-sided heart failure. In fact, clients may experience reduced urine output due to poor kidney perfusion.
D.   Chest pain can occur due to ischemia, but this is not a hallmark symptom of left-sided heart failure, which is more characterized by dyspnea and fatigue.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. This question assesses the client's level of orthopnea, which is a condition where the client experiences difficulty breathing when lying flat. People with heart failure may need to use multiple pillows to prop themselves up to breathe more easily at night, making it an important question to assess respiratory status.
B. Chest pain with exertion can be indicative of cardiovascular issues but this question does not directly assess the client's respiratory status.
C. Tight rings and shoes can indicate fluid retention and edema, but it does not provide specific information about respiratory status.
D. Frequent nighttime voiding (nocturia) is common in heart failure, but it relates more to kidney function and fluid retention rather than respiratory function.

A. Consume 2500mL of fluids per day during the summer months B. Maintain daily sodium intake of no more than 2gm per day C. Notify the health care provider if weight increases by 5 Ibs. in one week D. If shortness of breath occurs with minimal activity, notify the provider E. Take furosemide anytime when feeling bloated or short of breath

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]

Explanation

A. Fluid intake may need to be regulated in heart failure patients, consuming 2500mL of fluids per day may be too high for some patients, depending on their condition and whether they are on fluid restriction. Fluid management should be individualized, and the provider should specify the amount based on the patient's condition.
B. A low-sodium diet is essential for heart failure patients to help reduce fluid retention, decrease blood pressure, and lessen the burden on the heart. The American Heart Association recommends a sodium intake of no more than 2,000-2,300 mg per day for heart failure patients.
C. Rapid weight gain is a sign of fluid retention, which can indicate worsening heart failure. A gain of 2-3 pounds in a single day or 5 pounds in a week should prompt the client to contact their healthcare provider for further evaluation.
D. Shortness of breath with minimal activity can be a sign of worsening heart failure or fluid overload. This symptom should be reported immediately to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and possible adjustments to treatment.
E. Furosemide (a diuretic) is often prescribed to reduce fluid retention but it should not be taken without proper guidance or as a response to symptoms without consulting the healthcare provider. Taking diuretics at the wrong time or in excessive amounts can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which could worsen the condition.

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The nurse is caring for a client who is in the later stages of left-sided heart failure. Which chief complaint would the nurse expect the client to report?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is performing the initial assessment of a client diagnosed with heart failure. Which question should the nurse ask to best assess the client's respiratory status?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse is providing discharge instructions for the client diagnosed with heart failure. Which information should the nurse provide to assist the client to limit complications and prevent future hospitalizations? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY).

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]

Explanation

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