A client is admitted with infective endocarditis. Which findings during the nursing assessment support this diagnosis? Select all that apply.

A. Heparin and Coumadin therapy to decrease clotting: Anticoagulants are not used to prevent aneurysm rupture. While they prevent thromboembolic events, they do not reduce wall stress or slow aneurysm expansion and may increase the risk of bleeding if rupture occurs.

B. Bedrest until there is shrinkage of the aneurysm: AAA does not shrink with bedrest, and prolonged immobility does not affect aneurysm size. Bedrest alone is not an effective nonsurgical intervention and may contribute to deconditioning or other complications.

C. Intraarterial thrombolytic therapy: Thrombolytic therapy is indicated for dissolving blood clots, not for preventing aneurysm rupture or reducing aneurysm size. Its use could increase bleeding risk and is not a recommended intervention for AAA management.

D. Maintenance of normal blood pressure: Controlling blood pressure reduces stress on the weakened aortic wall, decreasing the risk of rupture and slowing aneurysm enlargement. Lifestyle modifications, antihypertensive medications, and regular monitoring are key nonsurgical strategies for managing small AAAs.

A. The client diagnosed with endocarditis who has a temperature of 100°F: A low-grade fever in endocarditis should be monitored, but it is not immediately life-threatening. While infection is a concern, it does not require urgent intervention compared with acute cardiac symptoms.

B. The client diagnosed with cardiomyopathy who has bilateral 4+ peripheral edema: Severe edema indicates fluid overload and chronic heart failure, but it is generally a slower-developing complication. Assessment and interventions are important, but it is not as urgent as new-onset chest pain.

C. The client diagnosed with aortic valve stenosis who has weakness: Weakness may indicate decreased cardiac output, but unless accompanied by other acute signs like hypotension, chest pain, or syncope, it is lower priority compared with ongoing chest pain.

D. The client diagnosed with angina who is reporting chest pain: Acute chest pain can indicate myocardial ischemia or an evolving myocardial infarction, which is life-threatening. Immediate assessment and intervention to relieve pain, monitor vital signs, and prevent cardiac complications take priority over other stable or chronic conditions.