NCLEX-PN
Cardiac System NCLEX Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse obtains adult blood pressure readings on four separate clients. Which client should have a follow-up blood pressure check within 2 months?
Correct Answer: B,C
Rationale: A blood pressure of 132/98 mm Hg indicates stage 1 hypertension (systolic 130-139 or diastolic 90-99 mm Hg), requiring follow-up within 2 months to monitor and manage. The other readings are either normal (118/78) or prehypertension (138/88), which may not require such urgent follow-up.
Question 2 of 5
Which response by the nurse is most accurate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Sustained hypertension increases vascular resistance, which can compromise blood flow to vital organs like the heart, brain, and kidneys, leading to organ damage.
Question 3 of 5
When the nurse at the physician's office reviews the client's medical record, which finding is the best indication that the client's heart has been affected by sustained high blood pressure?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A moderate heart disorder, such as left ventricular hypertrophy, is a common consequence of sustained hypertension due to increased workload on the heart. The other options are less specific to hypertensive heart damage.
Question 4 of 5
When the client asks the nurse how cholesterol acts as a cardiac risk factor, what is the best explanation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: High cholesterol contributes to atherosclerosis, where excess fat (lipids) deposits thicken and harden the arterial walls, narrowing the lumen and increasing cardiac risk.
Question 5 of 5
After providing medication instructions, the best evidence that the client knows this drug's potential side effects is when the client states it may cause which adverse effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Atorvastatin (Lipitor) can cause muscle pain (myalgia) as a common side effect, potentially progressing to rhabdomyolysis in severe cases.