When caring for a patient who has intermittent claudication, the cardiac-vascular nurse advises the patient to:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Intermittent claudication (leg pain with exertion due to arterial insufficiency) improves with supervised walking, which promotes collateral circulation. Elevation (B) is for venous issues, stockings (A) help veins, and avoiding exercise (C) worsens the condition.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The average resting heart rate for a healthy adult is typically 60-100 beats per minute, with 60-80 bpm (Choice A) being the most commonly cited range for a fit individual. Choice C (40-60 bpm) may apply to highly trained athletes, while Choices B and D (100-120 and 120-140 bpm) are elevated rates, often seen during exercise or in medical conditions, not at rest.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The mediastinum is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity, containing the heart, esophagus, trachea, and major blood vessels. The lungs, however, are located in the pleural cavities on either side of the mediastinum, not within it.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The 'lub' sound (first heart sound, S1) occurs at the start of systole when the atrioventricular (AV) valves (tricuspid and mitral) close, preventing backflow into the atria as the ventricles contract.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Edema results from high blood pressure (increased hydrostatic pressure), protein leakage (reduced osmotic pressure), or lymphatic obstruction. Increased plasma protein concentration raises osmotic pressure, pulling fluid into capillaries, thus preventing edema.