A patient with heart failure is experiencing shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs. The nurse should monitor for signs of which of the following complications?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Worsening heart failure. Shortness of breath, fatigue, and leg swelling are common symptoms of heart failure. Monitoring for signs of worsening heart failure, such as increased dyspnea, weight gain, and decreased exercise tolerance, is crucial. Pulmonary embolism (A) presents with sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, not typically associated with chronic heart failure. Renal failure (B) may present with decreased urine output and electrolyte imbalances. Liver failure (C) may present with jaundice and changes in mental status. However, given the symptoms presented by the patient, monitoring for worsening heart failure is the most appropriate choice.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hypotension and tachycardia. In acute pancreatitis, complications like hypovolemic shock can lead to hypotension and tachycardia due to fluid shifts and inflammation. Decreased urine output and increased thirst (A) may indicate dehydration but are not specific to pancreatitis. Increased blood pressure and heart rate (B) are not typical signs of complications in pancreatitis. Tachypnea and cyanosis (D) suggest respiratory distress, which is not a common complication of pancreatitis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, hypercapnia. In COPD, impaired lung function leads to inadequate oxygen exchange, causing increased carbon dioxide levels in the blood (hypercapnia). This can result in respiratory acidosis and further exacerbate respiratory distress. Monitoring for hypercapnia is crucial in COPD management to prevent respiratory failure. Incorrect choices: A: Pulmonary embolism - While patients with COPD are at increased risk for blood clots, pulmonary embolism is not a direct complication of COPD. B: Pneumothorax - Although individuals with COPD may develop pneumothorax due to weakened lung tissue, it is not a common complication. D: Asthma attack - Asthma and COPD are distinct conditions with different pathophysiology. Asthma attacks are not a typical complication of COPD.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because avoiding physical activity to prevent joint strain is not recommended for managing osteoarthritis. Exercise is crucial for strengthening joints and improving flexibility. Choice A is correct as heat or cold therapy can help relieve joint pain. Choice B is correct as taking pain medication regularly can help manage symptoms. Choice C is correct as regular exercise is important for maintaining joint health. In summary, avoiding physical activity is not a recommended approach for managing osteoarthritis, unlike the other choices which are beneficial for the condition.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Respiratory failure. For a patient with chronic asthma, the priority complication to monitor for is respiratory failure as it can be life-threatening. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can lead to severe bronchoconstriction and impaired gas exchange, potentially resulting in respiratory failure. Monitoring for signs such as increased respiratory rate, use of accessory muscles, decreased oxygen saturation, and altered mental status is crucial. Pneumothorax (A) is a possible complication but less common in chronic asthma. Hyperglycemia (B) and chronic renal failure (D) are not directly related to asthma and are not the primary complications to monitor for in this case.