Which assessment finding indicates that a patient's heart failure (HF) is worsening?
An increase in O2 saturation to greater than 90%
The onset of atrial fibrillation
Louder S, and S2 heart sounds
A decrease in heart rate to 66 bpm
The Correct Answer is B
A. An increase in O2 saturation to greater than 90%: An increase in oxygen saturation is typically a positive sign and does not indicate worsening heart failure.
B. The onset of atrial fibrillation: The development of atrial fibrillation (AFib) in a patient with heart failure is a sign of worsening heart failure, as it indicates increased atrial pressure and the potential for further hemodynamic compromise.
C. Louder S1 and S2 heart sounds: Louder heart sounds do not specifically indicate worsening heart failure. They may vary based on other factors such as body habitus or the position of the patient.
D. A decrease in heart rate to 66 bpm: A heart rate of 66 bpm is within the normal range and does not suggest worsening heart failure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hypertension: This is not a cause of high-output heart failure. Hypertension typically leads to low-output heart failure due to increased afterload, which causes the heart to work harder.
B. Severe anemia: Severe anemia causes high-output heart failure because the body compensates for the decreased oxygen-carrying capacity by increasing cardiac output.
C. Sepsis: Sepsis can lead to high-output heart failure as the body attempts to maintain perfusion in the face of widespread vasodilation.
D. Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism increases metabolic demands, which can cause high-output heart failure as the heart attempts to meet the increased needs.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. PT/INR: PT/INR is used to assess clotting function and liver synthetic function but does not directly relate to the symptoms of lethargy and confusion.
B. Urea: Urea levels are related to kidney function and protein metabolism but do not directly explain the symptoms of encephalopathy.
C. Ammonia: Elevated ammonia levels in cirrhosis can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, which presents as lethargy and confusion. The liver is unable to convert ammonia to urea, leading to its accumulation in the blood.
D. Albumin: Albumin levels are important in assessing nutritional status and fluid balance in cirrhosis but do not directly cause lethargy and confusion.
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