The nurse is monitoring the results of laboratory tests for a client suspected of having heart failure.
Which of the following tests would provide key diagnostic information for the nurse?

Choice A rationale

Magnesium and bilateral lower extremity ultrasounds are not primary diagnostic tests for hypertension-related target organ damage. Magnesium levels do not directly correlate with hypertension complications, and lower extremity ultrasounds mainly evaluate vascular issues, such as deep vein thrombosis, rather than organs affected by chronic hypertension.

Choice B rationale

Urinalysis assesses kidney function by detecting proteinuria, an indicator of renal damage due to hypertension. Blood chemistry provides electrolytes and renal function metrics, like creatinine (normal range: 0.6–1.2 mg/dL). A 12-lead ECG identifies left ventricular hypertrophy or arrhythmias linked to cardiac strain from persistent high blood pressure, a common sign of target organ damage.

Choice C rationale

Complete blood count evaluates overall health but does not specifically target organ damage related to hypertension. Electroencephalogram measures brain activity and is more relevant for neurological conditions, such as seizures, not complications from high blood pressure.

Choice D rationale

Troponin evaluates myocardial injury in acute settings like myocardial infarction, unrelated to chronic hypertension-induced organ damage. Calcium levels and partial thromboplastin time assess coagulation and bone health but do not directly indicate target organ involvement in hypertension.

Choice A rationale

Constant erythema and warmth are more characteristic of venous insufficiency or inflammation, rather than peripheral artery disease. PAD is associated with reduced blood flow and tissue perfusion, leading to symptoms like pallor, coolness, and pain rather than persistent redness and warmth in affected areas.

Choice B rationale

Elevating the legs worsens ischemic pain in PAD by further reducing blood flow. Symptoms typically improve when the legs are in a dependent position due to gravity aiding perfusion. This is a key distinguishing feature in PAD compared to other vascular conditions like venous insufficiency.

Choice C rationale

Discomfort in the legs during exercise relieved by rest, known as intermittent claudication, is a hallmark of PAD. It occurs due to inadequate blood supply during increased activity. Rest restores perfusion and alleviates ischemic pain. This symptom reflects underlying arterial obstruction, a core pathophysiological feature of PAD.

Choice D rationale

Peripheral pulses in PAD are diminished or absent due to arterial obstruction. Bounding pulses in dependent positions suggest venous issues or high cardiac output, not arterial insufficiency. Accurate pulse assessment helps differentiate PAD from other vascular conditions. Normal pulse documentation is critical to diagnosis.