The nurse is preparing a client for an echocardiogram. The client asks what the test can show Which of the following is a correct statement?

A) Diarrhoea, possibly containing blood: Diarrhea, often accompanied by blood, is a hallmark symptom of ulcerative colitis. The inflammation typically starts in the rectum and extends proximally, causing frequent, bloody diarrhea. This symptom is a defining characteristic of the condition and is indicative of active disease.

B) Increased risk for colorectal cancer: Ulcerative colitis, especially when it is chronic or poorly controlled, significantly increases the risk for colorectal cancer. This is due to long-term inflammation that can cause cellular changes in the colon over time. Regular screenings are recommended for individuals with a history of ulcerative colitis.

C) Skip lesions and cobblestone appearance: This is the exception. Skip lesions and a cobblestone appearance are characteristic of Crohn's disease, not ulcerative colitis. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract and often exhibits areas of healthy tissue interspersed with areas of inflammation, known as skip lesions. Ulcerative colitis, in contrast, involves continuous inflammation that typically starts in the rectum and progresses proximally without the skip pattern.

D) Risk for bowel perforation and toxic megacolon: Both bowel perforation and toxic megacolon are complications associated with ulcerative colitis, particularly during severe flare-ups. Toxic megacolon is a life-threatening condition where the colon becomes massively dilated and can rupture, leading to peritonitis. This is a known risk with severe or poorly managed ulcerative colitis.

A) Aim to keep your HDL cholesterol as low as possible:
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, thereby reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. The goal should be to raise HDL cholesterol levels, not lower them. Higher levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

B) Controlling your diabetes is an important factor:
Diabetes is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to damage of the blood vessels, increase the risk of atherosclerosis, and raise the likelihood of heart disease. Proper management of diabetes through diet, medication, and lifestyle changes is essential to reduce the risk of CAD.

C) Exercising and achieving your goal weight are recommended:
Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for reducing the risk of coronary artery disease. Exercise helps improve cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, increases HDL cholesterol, and helps control body weight and blood sugar. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight reduces the strain on the heart and lowers the risk of developing CAD.

D) Increase saturated fat intake and limit unsaturated fats:
Saturated fats can raise low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol, which contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries and increases the risk of heart disease. Unsaturated fats, found in foods like olive oil, avocados, and fatty fish, are healthier and can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health. The goal should be to limit saturated fats and increase the intake of unsaturated fats.

E) It is important to keep your blood pressure within normal limits:
High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for coronary artery disease. It can lead to the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events. Keeping blood pressure within normal limits through lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt intake, managing stress, exercising, and taking medications if needed, is essential for heart health.