Heart Failure Application Flashcards
patient with a history of myocardial infarction is experiencing shortness of breath, fatigue, and activity intolerance. The healthcare provider suspects left-sided heart failure. Which of the following assessments would be most relevant in confirming the diagnosis?
A. Assessment of peripheral edema
B. Measurement of jugular venous distension (JVD)
C. Chest X-ray to assess for pulmonary congestion
D. Electrocardiogram (EKG) to assess for arrhythmias
C. Chest X-ray to assess for pulmonary congestion
Rationale: A chest X-ray is a useful diagnostic tool to confirm left-sided heart failure, as it can reveal pulmonary congestion and fluid accumulation in the lungs.
A nurse is caring for a patient with right-sided heart failure. Which of the following interventions would be most appropriate to address the patient’s fluid retention?
A. Administering diuretics as prescribed
B. Restricting fluid intake to prevent dehydration
C. Providing oxygen therapy to improve oxygenation
D. Encouraging high-sodium foods to increase blood volume
A. Administering diuretics as prescribed
Rationale: Diuretics are commonly used to treat fluid retention in right-sided heart failure by promoting the excretion of excess fluid and reducing edema.
A patient with heart failure is prescribed a pacemaker. Which of the following is the primary goal of this intervention?
A. To increase blood pressure
B. To regulate heart rhythm and improve cardiac output
C. To decrease oxygen consumption of the heart
D. To remove excess fluid from the lungs
B. To regulate heart rhythm and improve cardiac output
Rationale: A pacemaker is used to regulate the heart’s rhythm, which helps improve cardiac output, especially in patients with heart failure who have arrhythmias.
A nurse is educating a patient with left-sided heart failure about lifestyle modifications. Which of the following statements would be most appropriate to include in the teaching?
A. “You should increase your sodium intake to improve blood flow.”
B. “It’s important to monitor your weight daily and report any sudden weight gain.”
C. “Exercise is not recommended; you should rest as much as possible.”
D. “You can continue smoking as long as you follow your prescribed medication regimen.”
B. “It’s important to monitor your weight daily and report any sudden weight gain.”
Rationale: Monitoring weight daily helps detect fluid retention early, which is important for managing heart failure. Sudden weight gain can indicate worsening of the condition.
A patient with heart failure is receiving treatment for an underlying valvular disease. Which of the following interventions would be appropriate to address the cause of the heart failure?
A. Prescribing antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection
B. Performing a valve repair or replacement surgery
C. Administering corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
D. Encouraging increased physical activity to strengthen the heart
B. Performing a valve repair or replacement surgery
Rationale: In cases where heart failure is caused by valvular disease, repairing or replacing the damaged valve is a key intervention to improve heart function and reduce symptoms of heart failure.
