Which clinical manifestation would the nurse use to best indicate that the status of an elderly client's chronic heart failure condition is Improving?
Heart rate 100 beats per minute
+ 3 peripheral edema
Respiratory rate of 24 at rest
Alert and oriented X 3
The Correct Answer is D
A. A heart rate of 100 beats per minute is considered tachycardia (a heart rate above 100 bpm). This is not an indicator of improvement in heart failure, as it suggests the heart is working harder than usual. Chronic heart failure can lead to compensatory mechanisms such as tachycardia, but it’s typically not a sign of improvement.
B. Peripheral edema (swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet) is a common symptom of heart failure, resulting from fluid buildup due to poor cardiac output. A rating of +3 edema indicates moderate to severe swelling, which suggests fluid retention and poor circulation. This is a sign of worsening or poorly controlled heart failure, not improvement.
C. A respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute is slightly elevated, as the normal resting respiratory rate for adults is typically between 12 to 20 breaths per minute. A higher respiratory rate can be a sign of respiratory distress or compensatory breathing due to insufficient oxygenation or fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema), which are both symptoms of heart failure exacerbation.
D. Being alert and oriented X 3 means the client is aware of time, place, and person, indicating no signs of confusion or cognitive impairment. In the context of chronic heart failure, mental status changes (like confusion or disorientation) can occur due to decreased cerebral perfusion, low oxygen levels, or medications (such as diuretics or digitalis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["11"]
Explanation
The patient weighs 121 lbs, which is approximately 55 kilograms (121 ÷ 2.2).
Next, multiply the patient's weight in kilograms by the dosage prescribed, which is 20 units/kg. This results in a total dosage of 1100 units (55 kg × 20 units/kg).
The medication is supplied as 25,000 units in 250 mL, so to find out how many mL of medication is needed, set up a proportion: 25,000 units is to 250 mL as 1100 units is to X mL. Solving for X gives you 11 mL (1100 units × 250 mL ÷ 25,000 units).
Therefore, the nurse will administer 11 mL of Heparin to the patient.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This question assesses the client's level of orthopnea, which is a condition where the client experiences difficulty breathing when lying flat. People with heart failure may need to use multiple pillows to prop themselves up to breathe more easily at night, making it an important question to assess respiratory status.
B. Chest pain with exertion can be indicative of cardiovascular issues but this question does not directly assess the client's respiratory status.
C. Tight rings and shoes can indicate fluid retention and edema, but it does not provide specific information about respiratory status.
D. Frequent nighttime voiding (nocturia) is common in heart failure, but it relates more to kidney function and fluid retention rather than respiratory function.
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