Which diagnostic test may be prescribed to evaluate for the presence of a pulmonary embolism?
Stress testing
D-Dimer
Electrocardiogram
Pulmonary function testing
The Correct Answer is B
A. Stress testing evaluates cardiac function and ischemia but is not used to diagnose a pulmonary embolism (PE).
B. D-Dimer is correct. D-Dimer is a blood test that detects fibrin degradation products, which are elevated when a blood clot forms and breaks down, making it a useful screening test for pulmonary embolism. However, a positive D-Dimer is not diagnostic, and further imaging (e.g., CT pulmonary angiography) is required.
C. Electrocardiogram (ECG) may show changes (e.g., sinus tachycardia, right heart strain) but does not confirm PE.
D. Pulmonary function testing assesses lung diseases like COPD or asthma but is not used to diagnose PE.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Ascites is more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure. Right-sided failure leads to systemic congestion, causing fluid accumulation in the abdomen.
B. Edema in the legs and feet is a symptom of right-sided heart failure. Left-sided failure primarily affects the lungs, while right-sided failure leads to peripheral edema.
C. Crackles in the lungs are expected in left-sided heart failure. Pulmonary congestion results from blood backing up into the lungs, leading to fluid accumulation in the alveoli.
D. Confusion can occur due to decreased cardiac output and poor oxygenation to the brain. Clients with severe heart failure may experience cognitive changes or altered mental status.
E. Exertional dyspnea is a hallmark of left-sided heart failure. The inability of the left ventricle to pump effectively leads to pulmonary congestion, making breathing difficult during physical activity.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A pulmonary function test is used to assess lung diseases like COPD or asthma. It is not the primary diagnostic test for fluid overload and heart failure.
B. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is associated with early-onset COPD, but it does not relate to symptoms of fluid retention and heart failure as described in the question.
C. Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) is correct. BNP is released when the ventricles stretch due to fluid overload, making it a key diagnostic marker for heart failure. Elevated BNP levels indicate increased cardiac filling pressures and volume overload, which match the client’s symptoms.
D. A Doppler ultrasound is useful for detecting deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or vascular issues, but it does not assess systemic fluid retention and heart failure.
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