A patient with heart failure has recently started taking Digoxin (Lanoxin), Furosemide (Lasix), and Captopril. Which finding by the home health nurse is a priority to communicate to the healthcare provider?
Palpable liver edge 2 cm below the ribs on the right side.
Serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L after 1 week of therapy.
Weight increase from 120 pounds to 122 pounds over 3 days.
Presence of 1+ to 2+ edema in the feet and ankles.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While palpating the liver edge can provide information about liver health and potential fluid accumulation, it is not typically a priority assessment for a patient taking Digoxin (Lanoxin), Furosemide (Lasix), and Captopril.
Choice B rationale
A serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L is low (hypokalemia). This is a critical finding because both Digoxin and Furosemide can cause hypokalemia. Hypokalemia increases the risk of digoxin toxicity, which can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias.
Choice C rationale
While weight gain may indicate worsening heart failure, a gain of 2 pounds over 3 days is not typically considered significant. However, any sudden or unexplained weight gain should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale
Presence of 1+ to 2+ edema in the feet and ankles could indicate worsening heart failure, but it is not as immediately concerning as hypokalemia in a patient taking Digoxin and Furosemide.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The diaphragm is not typically the location of a coarctation of the aorta. The diaphragm is a muscle that helps with breathing and separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity.
Choice B rationale
The bifurcation into the common iliac arteries is not typically the location of a coarctation of the aorta. The common iliac arteries are located in the lower part of the aorta and supply blood to the pelvis and legs.
Choice C rationale
The aortic valve is not typically the location of a coarctation of the aorta. The aortic valve is located between the left ventricle of the heart and the aorta.
Choice D rationale
The ductus arteriosus is the correct answer. Coarctation of the aorta often occurs near the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that connects the left pulmonary artery to the aorta.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While fasting may be required before certain procedures, it is not the most crucial piece of information that the nurse needs to relay to the healthcare provider prior to a cardiac catheterization and coronary angiogram.
Choice B rationale
A shellfish allergy is crucial information because the dye used in an angiogram can cause an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to shellfish.
Choice C rationale
Although a previous heart attack is significant medical history, it is not the most crucial piece of information to relay prior to this procedure.
Choice D rationale
The rating of the patient’s pedal pulses is not the most crucial piece of information to relay prior to this procedure.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.