The nurse is explaining to a client diagnosed with heart failure that the client's heart muscle has thickened on the right side and is not able to fill properly.
The nurse is explaining which of the following types of heart failure?

Choice A rationale

Right-sided heart failure with thickened heart muscle refers specifically to the impaired filling capacity due to diastolic dysfunction. Diastolic dysfunction affects the filling phase, not the pumping phase. It may involve one side or both sides but is not explicitly described as right and left-sided diastolic in this context.

Choice B rationale

Right-sided systolic heart failure affects the pumping ability, while diastolic affects filling. Both conditions together do not explain the thickened myocardium impairing filling. A combination of systolic and diastolic failure typically includes both pumping and filling abnormalities rather than isolated thickening with poor filling.

Choice C rationale

Right-sided diastolic failure results from impaired ventricular relaxation and thickened myocardium, leading to reduced filling capacity. This type of failure involves the heart's inability to accommodate blood during diastole, consistent with the description of thickened heart muscle and poor filling on the right side.

Choice D rationale

Right-sided systolic failure involves impaired contractility and pumping of blood to the lungs, not poor filling caused by thickened muscle. Systolic dysfunction decreases the heart's output rather than affecting the filling phase described in this scenario.

Choice A rationale

Corticosteroids are used in thrombocytopenia because they suppress the immune response, particularly in immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). They reduce platelet destruction by inhibiting autoantibody formation and increasing platelet lifespan. Normal platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 400,000/µL. Thrombocytopenia occurs when platelets drop below 150,000/µL, increasing bleeding risk. Corticosteroids can also decrease capillary permeability, minimizing petechiae and ecchymoses.

Choice B rationale

Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine, is used for allergic reactions but has no role in treating thrombocytopenia. It does not address the underlying immune or hematologic causes of low platelet counts. Its primary actions include H1 receptor antagonism, reducing histamine-mediated symptoms like itching and swelling. However, it lacks immunosuppressive or hematologic-stimulating effects essential for managing thrombocytopenia.

Choice C rationale

Desmopressin (DDAVP) is a synthetic antidiuretic hormone analog used for certain bleeding disorders like von Willebrand disease or mild hemophilia A. It increases factor VIII and von Willebrand factor levels, improving clotting. However, it is not indicated for thrombocytopenia as it does not address platelet count deficiencies or immune-mediated platelet destruction.

Choice D rationale

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a thiazide diuretic used for hypertension and edema. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal tubule, promoting diuresis. HCTZ has no effect on platelet counts or immune mechanisms and is not used in thrombocytopenia. Its side effects, like electrolyte imbalances, may complicate patient management.