Treatment of Cardiac, Valvular, and Vascular Insufficiency, and Trauma

1. Which of the following is a common symptom of heart failure? A) Bradycardia B) Hypertension C) Dyspnea on exertion D) Increased appetite Answer: C) Dyspnea on exertion Rationale: Dyspnea on exertion is a classic symptom of heart failure due to fluid overload and decreased cardiac output. ________________________________________ 2. A patient with aortic stenosis is likely to exhibit which of the following symptoms? A) Hypertension B) Syncope C) Hyperactivity D) Weight loss Answer: B) Syncope Rationale: Syncope can occur in aortic stenosis due to decreased cerebral perfusion during exertion. ________________________________________ 3. Which medication is often prescribed for a patient with valvular insufficiency to manage symptoms of heart failure? A) Aspirin B) Furosemide C) Atorvastatin D) Digoxin Answer: B) Furosemide Rationale: Furosemide is a diuretic used to reduce fluid overload in heart failure. ________________________________________ 4. A patient presents with a swollen leg and pain. What is the priority nursing assessment? A) Evaluate for pulses B) Assess for temperature changes C) Check for capillary refill D) Measure the circumference of both legs Answer: A) Evaluate for pulses Rationale: Assessing pulses is crucial to determine blood flow and potential vascular insufficiency. ________________________________________ 5. Which condition is characterized by the bulging of an arterial wall? A) Aneurysm B) Thrombosis C) Embolism D) Arteriovenous fistula Answer: A) Aneurysm Rationale: An aneurysm is a localized dilation of an artery caused by weakening of the arterial wall. ________________________________________ 6. What is the primary goal of treatment for a patient with deep vein thrombosis (DVT)? A) To promote ambulation B) To prevent pulmonary embolism C) To relieve pain D) To decrease swelling Answer: B) To prevent pulmonary embolism Rationale: The most critical concern with DVT is the potential for a thrombus to dislodge and cause a pulmonary embolism. ________________________________________ 7. Which lab finding would indicate the presence of heart failure? A) Low BNP levels B) Elevated creatinine C) High B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) D) Normal electrolyte levels Answer: C) High B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) Rationale: Elevated BNP levels are indicative of heart failure and reflect cardiac strain. ________________________________________ 8. A patient with a history of myocardial infarction presents with chest pain and is diaphoretic. What should the nurse assess first? A) Blood pressure B) Respiratory rate C) Pain level D) Heart rate Answer: A) Blood pressure Rationale: Assessing blood pressure is crucial to evaluate the hemodynamic status of a patient with potential acute coronary syndrome. ________________________________________ 9. When caring for a patient with aortic regurgitation, which position may be most beneficial? A) Supine B) Prone C) Left lateral D) Sitting up and leaning forward Answer: D) Sitting up and leaning forward Rationale: This position can help reduce the workload on the heart and improve comfort. ________________________________________ 10. A nurse is teaching a patient about lifestyle changes to manage hypertension. Which statement indicates a need for further teaching? A) "I will reduce my sodium intake." B) "I can continue to smoke as long as I take my medications." C) "I will exercise regularly." D) "I should limit my alcohol consumption." Answer: B) "I can continue to smoke as long as I take my medications." Rationale: Smoking cessation is critical in managing hypertension and overall cardiovascular health.