The nurse is obtaining a health history from a 24-year-old patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Which information obtained by the nurse is most important in planning care?
The patient had a recent upper respiratory infection.
The patient has a family history of coronary artery disease.
The patient's 29-yr-old brother died from a sudden cardiac arrest.
The patient reports using cocaine "a few times" as a teenager.
The Correct Answer is C
A. While a recent upper respiratory infection might be relevant to overall health and could potentially influence cardiac symptoms, it is not as directly pertinent to the management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. HCM is primarily a genetic condition affecting the heart muscle, and a recent infection does not significantly impact the primary concerns related to HCM.
B. A family history of coronary artery disease (CAD) can be relevant, but it is less directly related to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy than other factors. CAD involves the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries and can lead to other cardiac issues, but HCM is more specifically associated with genetic factors and structural heart abnormalities rather than CAD.
C. This information is very important for planning care for the patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. A family history of sudden cardiac death, particularly at a young age, raises significant concerns about the genetic nature of the condition and the potential for similar outcomes.
D. Cocaine use can have serious cardiovascular effects and might contribute to other heart issues, but its relevance in the context of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is less direct. While substance abuse is a concern, it is not as critical in understanding or managing the risk associated with HCM compared to a family history of sudden cardiac arrest.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Occasional hiccups are not a common side effect of having a pacemaker. However, some patients may experience hiccups if the pacemaker’s lead irritates the diaphragm or other nearby structures. While hiccups are not a primary concern, they are not a standard expectation for all patients.
B. There is no need to disconnect a garage door opener due to having a pacemaker. Modern pacemakers are designed to be shielded from interference caused by common household electronic devices. The statement indicates a misunderstanding of the precautions necessary for managing a pacemaker.
C. This statement indicates a correct understanding of pacemaker care. It is important for patients with pacemakers to inform airport security screeners about their device before going through metal detectors or body scanners.
D. Regular monitoring of the pulse is important for patients with pacemakers, but taking the pulse every 3-4 days may not be necessary unless specifically advised by the healthcare provider. Typically, patients are instructed to monitor their pulse more frequently if they experience symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or irregular heartbeats.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypertrophy of the right ventricle refers to the thickening of the walls of the right ventricle of the heart. Hypertrophy of the right ventricle is not a typical consequence of rheumatic fever. Instead, rheumatic fever more commonly affects the heart valves.
B. Superior vena cava syndrome occurs when there is obstruction of the superior vena cava, which is a major vein that carries blood from the head, neck, and upper body to the heart. It is not a direct consequence of rheumatic fever.
C. Valvular heart disease is a significant long-term consequence of rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever can cause inflammation of the heart valves, leading to damage that may result in stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage) of the valves. The mitral and aortic valves are most commonly affected. This damage can progress over time and lead to chronic heart problems, including valvular heart disease.
D. Pulmonary hypertension refers to high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. It can be caused by various conditions, including chronic lung diseases and left heart disease. While rheumatic fever primarily affects the heart valves and can potentially lead to heart failure, it is not a direct cause of pulmonary hypertension.
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