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?

Serum electrolytes.

Complete blood count.

Blood urea nitrogen.

Brain natriuretic peptide.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A rationale

Serum electrolyte analysis provides insights into fluid and electrolyte balance but does not specifically diagnose heart failure. Electrolyte changes may occur secondary to heart failure but are not definitive markers for the condition.

Choice B rationale

Complete blood count evaluates for anemia or infection, which may contribute to symptomatology but is not diagnostic for heart failure. Heart failure diagnosis focuses on cardiac-specific markers rather than hematologic parameters.

Choice C rationale

Blood urea nitrogen assesses renal function and reflects perfusion status but lacks specificity for heart failure. Although renal dysfunction may occur in advanced heart failure, BNP measurement is more definitive for cardiac assessment.

Choice D rationale

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a key diagnostic marker for heart failure. Elevated BNP levels occur due to ventricular stretch and strain associated with fluid overload, a hallmark of heart failure. Normal BNP levels are typically <100 pg/mL, with elevated levels strongly suggesting cardiac dysfunction. .

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Asking about medication use may provide helpful information but does not address the primary concern. The symptoms of visual changes and headaches can indicate serious conditions such as increased intracranial pressure or hypertensive crisis. Immediate assessment is necessary to determine severity and prevent complications. Identifying a potential trigger does not replace the need for prompt diagnostic evaluation.

Choice B rationale

Referring the client to an eye specialist might be appropriate in cases of persistent vision issues without urgent symptoms. However, when combined with headaches, these symptoms could indicate systemic or neurological issues, such as hypertension or a brain lesion. Immediate action is required, as delayed assessment might allow for worsening of an acute condition.

Choice C rationale

Obtaining a full history and physical would provide valuable data for diagnosis. However, this approach is time-intensive and may not address the urgency of the situation. Rapid assessment, such as blood pressure measurement, takes precedence to identify conditions that could be immediately life-threatening, such as hypertensive emergencies.

Choice D rationale

Measuring blood pressure promptly assesses for hypertensive crises, a common cause of vision changes and headaches. Hypertensive crises require immediate treatment to prevent end-organ damage. Normal blood pressure ranges are typically 120/80 mmHg, and values exceeding 180/120 mmHg indicate a crisis. This action provides quick, actionable information critical for patient safety.

Correct Answer is ["12"]

Explanation

Step 1 is (176 pounds ÷ 2.2 pounds/kg) × 10 mcg/kg/min = 800 mcg/min.

Step 2 is (800 mcg ÷ 1000 mcg/mg) × 250 mL = 0.2 mL/min.

Step 3 is 0.2 mL/min × 60 min = 12 mL/hour. Final answer: 12 mL/hour.

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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?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is performing a health screening for a client at a local clinic and the client states, "I have noticed changes in my vision recently and I have also had some bad headaches.”. Which of the following actions should be a priority for the nurse to take?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The nurse is caring for a client who is in heart failure and weighs 176 pounds. The client is to receive prescribed dobutamine 10 mcg/kg/minute. The nurse has available 1,000 mg in 250 mL of 0.9% normal saline. How many mL per hour should the nurse administer to the client?

Correct Answer is ["12"]

Explanation

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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?