The nurse is assessing a client with the diagnosis of left-sided heart failure. Which clinical finding should the nurse expect the client to experience?
Orthopnea
Bradycardia
Diaphoresis
Frequent coughing with yellow sputum
The Correct Answer is A
A. Orthopnea is correct. Left-sided heart failure causes pulmonary congestion, making it difficult for the client to breathe when lying flat. This results in orthopnea, where the client must sit up or use multiple pillows to breathe comfortably.
B. Bradycardia is incorrect. Heart failure typically leads to tachycardia due to the heart compensating for decreased cardiac output.
C. Diaphoresis is incorrect. While excessive sweating can occur in acute decompensated heart failure, it is not a hallmark symptom of left-sided heart failure.
D. Frequent coughing with yellow sputum is incorrect. A client with left-sided heart failure may have a dry or frothy, pink-tinged cough, but yellow sputum suggests infection rather than heart failure.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Weight gain is more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure due to fluid retention and peripheral edema, not left-sided heart failure.
B. Shortness of breath (dyspnea) is correct. Left-sided heart failure causes pulmonary congestion, leading to dyspnea, orthopnea, and pulmonary edema as blood backs up into the lungs.
C. Pulmonary embolism is not a direct manifestation of left-sided heart failure. While heart failure increases the risk of clot formation, a pulmonary embolism is a separate condition.
D. Anorexia is more common in right-sided heart failure, as systemic venous congestion can lead to gastrointestinal edema and poor appetite.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Crossing the legs can actually increase the risk of venous stasis and clot formation, which can lead to a pulmonary embolism. The client needs further teaching to avoid this habit.
B. Smoking increases the risk of blood clot formation, so quitting smoking is an appropriate preventive measure.
C. Staying hydrated helps maintain good blood flow and reduces the risk of clot formation.
D. Regular exercise and weight management help prevent venous stasis and clot formation, lowering the risk of pulmonary embolism.
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