A nurse is caring for a client with suspected congestive heart failure. Which blood test is specifically used to measure heart strain and assist in the diagnosis of CHF?
Complete blood count (CBC)
Basic metabolic panel (BMP)
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level
C-reactive protein (CRP) level
The Correct Answer is C
A) This choice is incorrect because a complete blood count (CBC) is a general blood test that measures different components of the blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It is not specifically used to measure heart strain or diagnose CHF.
B) This choice is incorrect because a basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a blood test that measures electrolytes, kidney function, and glucose levels. It is not specific to diagnosing CHF.
C) This choice is correct. A brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level is a blood test specifically used to measure heart strain. Elevated BNP levels can indicate heart failure, making it a valuable diagnostic tool in assessing suspected CHF.
D) This choice is incorrect because a C-reactive protein (CRP) level is a marker of inflammation and is not specific to diagnosing CHF.
Nursing Test Bank
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because a body mass index (BMI) of 22 kg/m² is within the normal range and is not directly associated with the development of congestive heart failure in this scenario.
B) This choice is incorrect because a blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg is within the normal range and does not indicate a direct precipitating factor for congestive heart failure in this case.
C) This choice is incorrect because a fasting blood glucose level of 90 mg/dL is within the normal range and is not directly associated with the development of congestive heart failure in this scenario.
D) This choice is correct. A serum cholesterol level of 240 mg/dL indicates high cholesterol, which is a risk factor for coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease is a leading cause of congestive heart failure and may have contributed to the client's condition.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because clubbing refers to the enlargement of the fingertips and nails due to chronic hypoxia, which is not related to the client's reported symptoms.
B) This choice is correct. Peripheral edema refers to swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, which is a common symptom of congestive heart failure. The client's symptoms of swollen ankles, legs, and abdomen indicate peripheral edema.
C) This choice is incorrect because pitting edema is a specific type of edema where pressure on the skin leaves an indentation or "pit." While the client's edema may indeed be pitting, the question does not provide enough information to confirm this.
D) This choice is incorrect because ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and is not specific to the client's reported symptoms of swollen ankles and legs.
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