A 73-year-old patient has increased pulmonary pressure resulting in right heart failure. What could be a potential cause for the right heart to fail?

Choice A rationale
A 39-year-old patient experiencing tenderness and swelling in the right calf following a flight may be experiencing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition that can lead to serious complications such as pulmonary embolism if not treated. However, DVT is not immediately life-threatening in most cases.
Choice B rationale
A 58-year-old patient on anticoagulants for atrial fibrillation presenting with black stools is likely experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding, a common side effect of anticoagulant therapy. This can lead to severe blood loss, anemia, and hypovolemic shock, which can be life-threatening if not promptly addressed. Therefore, this patient should be prioritized for assessment.
Choice C rationale
A 67-year-old patient with a gangrenous foot ulcer and a weak pedal pulse likely has peripheral artery disease and an infection that could lead to sepsis if not treated. However, while this condition needs medical attention, it is not as immediately life-threatening as gastrointestinal bleeding.
Choice D rationale
A 50-year-old patient reporting sudden, severe upper back pain could be experiencing a number of conditions, ranging from musculoskeletal strain to aortic dissection. While an aortic dissection is a medical emergency, without additional symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or loss of consciousness, this patient is not the highest priority.

Choice A rationale
While reducing anxiety and relieving pain are important aspects of care, they are not the primary goal for a client with an elevated ST segment on the ECG and an elevated cardiac troponin level. These findings indicate myocardial injury, which requires interventions to improve myocardial oxygenation and reduce cardiac workload.
Choice B rationale
The primary goal for a client with an elevated ST segment on the ECG and an elevated cardiac troponin level is to improve myocardial oxygenation and reduce cardiac workload. This can be achieved through medications, oxygen therapy, and bed rest.
Choice C rationale
Eliminating family stressors and providing a calm environment can contribute to reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, but it is not the primary goal in this situation.
Choice D rationale
Starting the client on a low-sodium diet and decreasing fluid intake are interventions for managing heart failure, not for an acute myocardial injury.