A nurse is teaching a patient with a history of stroke about preventing future strokes. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates the need for further education?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because stopping medication once blood pressure is normal can lead to a rebound increase in blood pressure, increasing the risk of stroke. A patient with a history of stroke needs to continue taking medications as prescribed to maintain optimal blood pressure control. Statements A, B, and D are all indicative of good stroke prevention strategies, such as managing blood pressure, limiting alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increasing physical activity and reducing salt intake. Firstly, increasing physical activity helps lower blood pressure by improving heart health and circulation. Secondly, reducing salt intake helps decrease fluid retention and lower blood pressure. The other choices are incorrect because B: Increasing alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure, C: Decreasing physical activity is counterproductive, and D: Increasing sodium intake can lead to higher blood pressure due to fluid retention. Prioritizing physical activity and reducing salt intake are evidence-based lifestyle changes to manage hypertension effectively.

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: Avoiding environmental allergens and smoking. Environmental allergens and smoking are common triggers for asthma attacks. Avoiding these triggers can significantly reduce the risk of exacerbations. Over-the-counter medications may provide symptomatic relief but do not address the underlying triggers. Increasing physical activity can be beneficial but may also trigger asthma attacks in some individuals. Limiting fluid intake to reduce mucus production is not a recommended strategy for managing asthma triggers.