A nurse is explaining the importance of an electrocardiogram (ECG) in the diagnosis of hypertension. Which statement should the nurse include in the discussion?
"An ECG helps determine the extent of blockages in your arteries caused by hypertension."
"ECG results are used to identify any enlargement or abnormalities in your heart due to hypertension."
"An ECG is essential in diagnosing kidney damage, which is a common complication of hypertension."
"ECG results provide information on the levels of sodium and potassium in your blood, which may be affected by hypertension."
The Correct Answer is B
A) This option is incorrect. While hypertension is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis, an ECG primarily assesses the heart's electrical activity, not arterial blockages.
B) Correct answer. An ECG is essential in diagnosing and assessing heart abnormalities, such as left ventricular hypertrophy, which can result from the strain caused by hypertension.
C) This option is incorrect. An ECG is not directly used to diagnose kidney damage. Blood tests like creatinine and BUN are more specific for assessing kidney function in the context of hypertension.
D) This option is incorrect. An ECG does not provide information on blood levels of sodium and potassium. Blood tests are used for evaluating electrolyte levels, not ECG results.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct answer. Proteinuria (presence of protein in urine) and edema (swelling) are common signs of kidney damage (nephrosclerosis) resulting from long-standing uncontrolled hypertension.
B) This option is incorrect. Weight loss and increased appetite are not typical manifestations of target organ damage in hypertension.
C) This option is incorrect. Improved exercise tolerance is not associated with target organ damage in hypertension.
D) This option is incorrect. Reduced urine output is not typically associated with target organ damage in hypertension. However, reduced urine output may occur in acute hypertensive emergencies, such as hypertensive nephropathy.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This option is incorrect. Home blood pressure monitoring may not identify the specific underlying causes of hypertension, as it primarily focuses on monitoring blood pressure levels.
B) Correct answer. Self-monitoring blood pressure at home allows individuals to track their blood pressure trends over time, observe the effects of lifestyle changes and medication, and communicate this information with their healthcare providers for effective management.
C) This option is incorrect. While home blood pressure monitoring can provide valuable data to determine target blood pressure ranges, healthcare providers play a crucial role in establishing appropriate targets and making treatment adjustments.
D) This option is incorrect. Home blood pressure monitoring is a valuable complement to regular medical check-ups, but it does not replace the need for healthcare visits. Regular medical check-ups are essential for comprehensive hypertension management and monitoring other health parameters.
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