A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of heart failure. The nurse should monitor for signs of which of the following complications?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pulmonary edema. In heart failure, the heart is unable to pump effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs causing pulmonary edema. This can result in symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Monitoring for pulmonary edema is crucial in heart failure management to prevent respiratory distress and worsening heart function. Rationale: A: Hypoglycemia - While patients with heart failure may be at risk for metabolic abnormalities, hypoglycemia is not a common complication directly related to heart failure. C: Anemia - Anemia can occur in heart failure due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, but it is not a direct complication that requires immediate monitoring like pulmonary edema. D: Hypertension - Heart failure is characterized by a reduced ability of the heart to pump blood effectively, leading to decreased cardiac output. Therefore, hypertension is not typically a complication seen in heart failure patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Swelling in the legs and shortness of breath. In heart failure, the heart is unable to pump effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the body. Swelling in the legs (edema) is a classic sign of fluid overload as the fluid pools in the lower extremities. Shortness of breath occurs due to fluid accumulating in the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. Weight loss and increased appetite (A) are not typical signs of fluid overload. Increased urine output and dehydration (B) are more indicative of fluid deficit. Nausea and vomiting (D) can occur in various conditions but are not specific to fluid overload in heart failure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "I can wear tight shoes to avoid blisters." Tight shoes can increase pressure on the feet, leading to blisters and worsening neuropathy symptoms. A: Inspecting feet daily is important to catch any issues early. C: Walking barefoot can increase the risk of injuries. D: Maintaining blood glucose levels within target range is crucial for managing diabetic neuropathy. In summary, the incorrect choices either provide important preventive measures or focus on key aspects of diabetes management, while the correct choice suggests a harmful behavior that can exacerbate neuropathy symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer antiepileptics. This is the most appropriate intervention for a client with a history of seizures as antiepileptic medications help prevent or reduce the frequency of seizures. Monitoring vital signs (B) is important but does not directly address the underlying issue of seizures. Oxygen therapy (C) may be needed during a seizure but does not prevent future episodes. Monitoring ECG (D) may provide information on cardiac function but is not the primary intervention for seizures. Administering antiepileptics is essential for seizure management.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Elevate the affected leg. This is the first action because elevating the leg helps reduce swelling and improve blood flow, reducing the risk of complications from the DVT. It also helps alleviate pain. Choice B: Applying compression stockings can be helpful in preventing DVT, but it is not the first action to take once it has developed. Choice C: Providing leg elevation is similar to choice A, but it lacks the specificity of elevating the affected leg to address the DVT directly. Choice D: Administering compression therapy may be necessary, but it is not the initial action to take when a client develops a DVT.