A nurse is caring for an older adult patient with left-sided heart failure. What assessment findings should the nurse expect?
Frothy sputum.
Dependent edema.
Nocturnal polyuria.
Jugular distention.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Frothy sputum is a common finding in patients with left-sided heart failure. This is due to fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema), which can cause the sputum to become frothy.
Choice B rationale
Dependent edema is more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure. It occurs due to fluid accumulation in the systemic circulation, leading to swelling in the lower extremities.
Choice C rationale
Nocturnal polyuria can occur in heart failure, but it is not a specific sign of left-sided heart failure.
Choice D rationale
Jugular venous distention is a sign of right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure. It occurs due to increased pressure in the right atrium, leading to visible distention of the jugular veins.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Before administering digoxin, it is crucial to measure the patient’s apical pulse. Digoxin affects the heart rate, and a low pulse could indicate that the dose needs to be adjusted.
Choice B rationale
Offering a light snack is not specifically required before administering digoxin.
Choice C rationale
While it’s always important to monitor a patient’s blood pressure, it’s not specifically required before administering digoxin.
Choice D rationale
Weighing the patient is not specifically required before administering digoxin.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Frothy sputum is a common finding in patients with left-sided heart failure. This is due to fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema), which can cause the sputum to become frothy.
Choice B rationale
Dependent edema is more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure. It occurs due to fluid accumulation in the systemic circulation, leading to swelling in the lower extremities.
Choice C rationale
Nocturnal polyuria can occur in heart failure, but it is not a specific sign of left-sided heart failure.
Choice D rationale
Jugular venous distention is a sign of right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure. It occurs due to increased pressure in the right atrium, leading to visible distention of the jugular veins.
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