Which diagnostic test will be most useful to the nurse in determining whether a client admitted with acute shortness of breath has heart failure?

Discharge teaching for a client with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction should prioritize education about medications that are essential in managing heart failure, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.

ACE inhibitors are a class of medications commonly prescribed to heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction. They work by dilating blood vessels, reducing the workload on the heart, and improving the heart's pumping ability. They are one of the cornerstones of heart failure management and have been shown to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and prolong survival in heart failure patients.

Educating the client about the benefits and effects of ACE inhibitors is crucial to promote medication adherence and ensure they understand the importance of taking this medication as prescribed. Common side effects, such as dizziness or dry cough, should also be discussed so the client knows what to expect and when to notify their healthcare provider.

While the other options may also be relevant to a client with heart failure, including starting an aerobic exercise program (A), reducing salt intake (B), and scheduling regular follow-up appointments (C), the immediate priority in discharge teaching should be about the medication regimen and the specific benefits and effects of ACE inhibitors. Other aspects of heart failure management can be addressed during the overall education and follow-up sessions.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition where the kidneys are damaged or unable to filter blood effectively over time, leading to a gradual loss of kidney function. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing CKD, and among them, diabetes and hypertension are the most common.

Diabetes is a significant risk factor for developing CKD. It can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and fluid from the blood properly. Native Americans, along with other racial and ethnic minorities, are at a higher risk of developing diabetes compared to the general population.

While hypertension (high blood pressure) is also a risk factor for CKD, diabetes carries a higher risk. However, it's important to note that hypertension is often a comorbidity associated with CKD and can further worsen kidney function when present.

The other options listed (a 50-year-old white female with hypertension, a 40-year-old Hispanic female with cardiovascular disease, and a 28-year-old African American female with a urinary tract infection) are also at risk for CKD, but the 61-year-old Native American male with diabetes is at the highest risk based on the information provided. All patients should be educated about preventive measures to protect their kidney health, but special attention should be given to individuals with diabetes due to its significant impact on kidney function.