Decreased Cardiac Output Knowledge Based

Question 1

Which of the following is the most common manifestation of decreased cardiac output?

A) Tachycardia
B) Cyanosis
C) Hemoptysis
D) Hyperkalemia

Answer 1

B) Cyanosis
Rationale: Decreased cardiac output leads to reduced oxygenation of tissues, resulting in cyanosis, especially in the extremities and mucous membranes. Other manifestations, such as fatigue, oliguria, and fluid accumulation, may also occur, but cyanosis is a key sign.

Question 2

A patient with pericarditis presents with sharp chest pain that worsens with deep inspiration and improves when sitting up or leaning forward. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this symptom?

A) Increased myocardial oxygen demand
B) Pericardial friction rub
C) Cardiac tamponade
D) Aortic dissection

Answer 2

B) Pericardial friction rub
Rationale: The sharp, sudden chest pain that worsens with inspiration and improves with sitting up or leaning forward is characteristic of pericarditis, and specifically caused by the pericardial friction rub—a grating sound caused by inflammation of the pericardium.

Question 3

The nurse is assessing a patient with suspected cardiac tamponade. Which of the following signs is associated with this condition?

A) Low blood pressure
B) Tachypnea
C) Hypokalemia
D) Increased urine output

Answer 3

A) Low blood pressure
Rationale: Cardiac tamponade results in compression of the heart due to fluid accumulation in the pericardial space, leading to decreased cardiac output and low blood pressure. Other signs include distended jugular veins and muffled heart sounds, which together form Beck’s triad.