A nurse is assessing a client with suspected congestive heart failure. Which symptom is the classic hallmark of left-sided heart failure?

A) This choice is incorrect because hypokalemia (low potassium levels) is more commonly associated with loop diuretics rather than beta-blockers.

B) This choice is incorrect because while hypotension (low blood pressure) can be a potential adverse effect of beta-blockers, it is not the primary adverse effect to be monitored for.

C) This choice is correct. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is a common adverse effect of beta-blockers, which work by slowing the heart rate and reducing the force of the heart's contractions. The nurse should monitor the client's heart rate and report any significant changes or symptoms of bradycardia to the healthcare provider.

D) This choice is incorrect because hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels) is not a common adverse effect of beta-blockers. In fact, beta-blockers can sometimes cause transient hypoglycemia.

A) This choice is incorrect because serum electrolyte levels are not directly measured during an echocardiogram. They are typically assessed through a blood test and are not specific to evaluating heart function using ultrasound.

B) This choice is incorrect because blood pressure readings are not directly measured during an echocardiogram. Blood pressure is typically assessed using a sphygmomanometer and is not specific to evaluating heart function using ultrasound.

C) This choice is incorrect because oxygen saturation levels are not directly measured during an echocardiogram. Oxygen saturation is typically assessed using a pulse oximeter and is not specific to evaluating heart function using ultrasound.

D) This choice is correct. Ejection fraction (EF) is a parameter measured during an echocardiogram to assess the client's heart function. It represents the percentage of blood pumped out of the heart's left ventricle with each heartbeat and is an essential indicator of heart muscle efficiency and potential heart failure.

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