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 B
Explanation
Croup is a common respiratory illness in young children, characterized by inflammation of the upper airways (including the larynx and trachea) that leads to a characteristic barking cough and difficulty breathing. Croup is most commonly caused by viral infections, particularly parainfluenza virus, although other viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza virus can also be responsible. 
Bacterial croup is rare and usually occurs in children who have an underlying condition that makes them more susceptible to bacterial infections, such as immunodeficiency or a history of recurrent respiratory infections. Fungal croup is also rare and usually occurs in children with a weakened immune system or a history of exposure to contaminated soil or other environmental sources of fungi.
Autoimmune croup is not a recognized medical condition. While some autoimmune disorders can affect the respiratory system (such as systemic lupus erythematosus), they do not typically cause croup-like symptoms.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Orthostatic hypotension is a drop in blood pressure that occurs when a person stands up from a sitting or lying down position. To check for orthostatic hypotension, the nurse typically takes the patient's blood pressure and heart rate while the patient is lying down, then has the patient stand up for a few minutes and takes the blood pressure and heart rate again. If the blood pressure drops significantly (usually a drop of 20 mm Hg or more) and the heart rate increases, it may indicate orthostatic hypotension.
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