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A client seen in the clinic with shortness of breath and fatigue is being evaluated for a possible diagnosis of heart failure. Which laboratory result will be the most useful for diagnosing heart failure?

A.

B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)

B.

Troponin I

C.

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

D.

Platelet levels

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP): BNP levels are elevated in heart failure due to increased pressure and stretch in the heart's chambers. It is a key marker used to diagnose and assess the severity of heart failure.
B. Troponin I: This marker is used to diagnose myocardial infarction (heart attack) rather than heart failure. Elevated troponin levels indicate damage to the heart muscle.
C. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): BUN levels can be elevated in heart failure due to decreased renal perfusion, but it is not as specific for diagnosing heart failure as BNP.
D. Platelet levels: Platelet levels are not directly related to the diagnosis of heart failure. They are more relevant for assessing clotting disorders and other conditions.
 


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Excess mineralocorticoids: Mineralocorticoids primarily affect electrolyte and fluid balance. While excess mineralocorticoids can cause hypertension and fluid retention, they are not directly responsible for hirsutism or acne.
B. Excess adrenal androgens: Cushing syndrome can lead to elevated levels of adrenal androgens, which are responsible for hirsutism (excessive hair growth) and acne due to their androgenic effects.
C. Excess thyroid hormone: Thyroid hormone imbalances can affect various body systems, but they are not directly related to the development of hirsutism or acne seen in Cushing syndrome.
D. Excess glucocorticoids: While excess glucocorticoids are characteristic of Cushing syndrome and can cause a range of symptoms, hirsutism and acne are specifically due to excess adrenal androgens rather than glucocorticoids.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. "I will include protein and carbohydrates in every meal": This is appropriate for a client with Graves' disease. A balanced diet with adequate protein and carbohydrates helps meet increased caloric needs due to hypermetabolism.
B. "I will avoid caffeinated beverages": This is a correct statement. Clients with Graves' disease should avoid caffeine as it can exacerbate symptoms like tremors and palpitations.
C. "I will eat a high-fiber diet": This is beneficial for maintaining gastrointestinal health. Hyperthyroidism can cause increased bowel movements, so a high-fiber diet helps prevent diarrhea.
D. "I will eat six full meals per day, with snacks in between": This indicates a need for further teaching. While frequent meals may be needed, "six full meals" can be excessive. Instead, a high-calorie, nutrient-dense diet with smaller, more frequent meals may be recommended to address increased metabolic demands without overloading the digestive system.

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