A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic tests for a client suspected of having congestive heart failure. Which test is considered the gold standard for diagnosing CHF?

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Chest X-ray

Echocardiogram

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A) This choice is incorrect because an electrocardiogram (ECG) is a valuable diagnostic tool for assessing the heart's electrical activity and rhythm, but it is not the gold standard for diagnosing CHF. It can provide information about possible cardiac hypertrophy or rhythm disturbances associated with heart failure.

B) This choice is incorrect because a chest X-ray is helpful in evaluating heart size and the presence of pulmonary congestion, but it is not the gold standard for diagnosing CHF.

C) This choice is correct. An echocardiogram is the gold standard for diagnosing CHF. It uses ultrasound waves to assess the heart's structure and function, including ejection fraction and valve function, providing critical information to confirm the diagnosis of heart failure.

D) This choice is incorrect because a brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level is a blood test that can aid in the diagnosis of CHF. Elevated BNP levels indicate heart strain, but it is not the gold standard for diagnosing CHF.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) This choice is correct. Alcohol abuse can lead to dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition in which the heart becomes enlarged and weakened, contributing to congestive heart failure. Chronic alcohol consumption can cause toxic effects on the heart muscle, leading to impaired pumping function.

B) This choice is incorrect because malnutrition, while it can impact overall health, is not a direct precipitating cause of congestive heart failure. However, malnutrition can exacerbate heart failure symptoms and weaken the heart further.

C) This choice is incorrect because a sedentary lifestyle can be a risk factor for heart disease, including congestive heart failure, but it is not a direct precipitating cause of the client's condition in this scenario.

D) This choice is incorrect because occupational exposure to toxins can have health implications, but it is not directly related to the client's signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure in this case.

A. Hypertension B. Hyperkalemia C. Bradycardia D. Respiratory alkalosis

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because hypertension is not a common side effect of digoxin. Digoxin is used to treat heart failure and can help control blood pressure in some cases.

B) This choice is incorrect because hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels) is not a common side effect of digoxin. In fact, digoxin can sometimes cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) as a side effect.

C) This choice is correct. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is a common side effect of digoxin. Digoxin works by increasing the force of the heart's contractions and can slow down the heart rate. Clients taking digoxin should have their heart rate monitored regularly, and the healthcare provider should be notified if the heart rate is below the prescribed parameters.

D) This choice is incorrect because respiratory alkalosis is not a common side effect of digoxin. Digoxin does not directly affect the respiratory system.

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A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic tests for a client suspected of having congestive heart failure. Which test is considered the gold standard for diagnosing CHF?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with a history of alcohol abuse and malnutrition is admitted with signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure. Which factor is likely a precipitating cause of the client's condition?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A client with congestive heart failure is prescribed digoxin. The nurse should monitor the client for which common side effect of this medication?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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