Patient wants to know what causes atherosclerosis. How should the nurse respond? In general, atherosclerosis is caused by
High serum cholesterol levels
Endothelial injury and inflammation
An increase in antithrombotic substances
Congenital heart disease
The Correct Answer is B
Atherosclerosis is a complex disease process that involves the gradual buildup of plaques (fatty deposits) in the walls of arteries, leading to narrowing and reduced blood flow. The exact cause of atherosclerosis is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors
One of the key contributing factors to atherosclerosis is damage to the endothelial cells that line the walls of arteries. This damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including high blood pressure, smoking, high levels of lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and other inflammatory factors. When the endothelial cells are damaged, they release chemicals that attract white blood cells to the area. These white blood cells then migrate into the arterial wall, where they begin to accumulate and form fatty deposits called plaques.
Over time, these plaques can grow and calcify, leading to further narrowing of the artery and reducing blood flow to the affected tissue. In addition, plaques can rupture and form blood clots, which can completely block blood flow to the affected area and cause a heart attack or stroke.
While high serum cholesterol levels are a risk factor for atherosclerosis, they are not the sole cause. Similarly, an increase in antithrombotic substances (substances that prevent blood clots) and congenital heart disease are not primary causes of atherosclerosis, although they may contribute to the disease process in some cases.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Atherosclerosis is a disease in which fatty deposits (plaques) build up in the walls of arteries, leading to narrowing and reduced blood flow. Elevated levels of certain lipids, including low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides, are well-established risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis.
In contrast, high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol has been shown to have a protective effect against atherosclerosis. HDL is often referred to as "good cholesterol" because it helps to transport excess cholesterol from peripheral tissues (including the walls of arteries) back to the liver for processing and excretion. HDL also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.
In general, higher levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis. However, the protective effect of HDL may vary depending on other factors such as smoking, obesity, and diabetes. It is important to maintain a healthy balance of lipids in the bloodstream, including a high level of HDL and low levels of LDL and triglycerides, in order to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Sustained hypertension can lead to several complications, including damage to the blood vessels in the retina (retinopathy), increased risk of stroke, and damage to the kidneys (renal disease). Other potential complications include heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, and cognitive impairment. It is important to manage hypertension through lifestyle modifications and medication to prevent these complications.
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