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 D

Explanation

A) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics can lead to increased sodium excretion, potentially causing hypernatremia (high sodium levels) rather than hyponatremia (low sodium levels).

B) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics do not typically cause hypocalcemia (low calcium levels). They primarily affect sodium, potassium, and water excretion.

C) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics are more likely to cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) rather than hyperkalemia (high potassium levels). Loop diuretics can increase potassium excretion, leading to a potential deficiency.

D) This choice is correct. Loop diuretics are potent potassium-wasting diuretics, meaning they increase potassium excretion in the urine, potentially causing hypokalemia. The nurse should closely monitor the client's potassium levels and provide potassium supplementation if necessary.

A. Serum electrolyte levels B. Blood pressure readings C. Oxygen saturation levels D. Ejection fraction (EF)

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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.

Questions

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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 congestive heart failure is prescribed a loop diuretic. The nurse should closely monitor the client for which electrolyte imbalance associated with this medication?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A client with suspected congestive heart failure undergoes an echocardiogram. The nurse should expect which parameter to be measured during the echocardiogram to assess the client's heart function?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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