Which assessment data collected from a client with chronic congestive heart failure would indicate precipitating causes?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is C) Hyperthyroidism, bronchitis, overexertion. Explanation: 1. Hyperthyroidism can exacerbate heart failure by increasing heart rate and workload on the heart. 2. Bronchitis can lead to increased respiratory distress and strain on the heart. 3. Overexertion can put additional stress on the heart, worsening heart failure symptoms. Why other options are incorrect: A) Subnormal body temp, obesity, metabolic acidosis are not typically precipitating factors for heart failure exacerbation. B) Peripheral hypotension, asthenia, high altitude are not commonly associated with precipitating causes of heart failure worsening. D) Dry cough, orthopnea, bradycardia are more indicative of heart failure symptoms rather than precipitating causes. Educational context: Understanding precipitating factors for heart failure exacerbation is crucial for managing patients with chronic congestive heart failure. Recognizing these factors allows healthcare providers to intervene early and prevent acute decompensation. Educating patients on avoiding these triggers is also essential in managing their condition effectively.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In developing a plan of care for Mr. Robertson's diuretic therapy, it is most important to observe for signs of hypokalemia, which is the correct answer (D). This is crucial because diuretics, like Lasix, can lead to potassium loss, potentially causing dangerous cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring potassium levels and being vigilant for signs of hypokalemia, such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and cardiac irregularities, is essential for patient safety. Option A, monitoring vital signs frequently, is a general nursing intervention but is not specific to diuretic therapy. Giving Lasix with milk (Option B) is incorrect as it does not impact the effectiveness or side effects of the diuretic. Observing for fluid overload (Option C) is important but is typically more relevant in conditions where fluid retention is a concern, rather than in the context of diuretic therapy where fluid loss is the goal. In an educational context, understanding the side effects and monitoring parameters related to diuretic therapy is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to patients like Mr. Robertson. Emphasizing the importance of monitoring electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia, can help prevent serious complications and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Left ventricle. The left ventricle is responsible for ejecting oxygenated blood into the systemic arterial circulation via the aorta. It receives oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium and pumps it out through the aorta to the rest of the body. Rationale: 1. The left ventricle receives blood from the left atrium, which has already been oxygenated in the lungs. 2. It is the chamber that generates the highest pressure to propel blood into the systemic circulation. 3. The aorta is the main artery that carries oxygenated blood away from the heart to the body. 4. The right atrium and right ventricle are involved in pumping deoxygenated blood to the lungs for oxygenation, not into the systemic circulation. 5. The left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs but does not directly eject blood into the systemic arterial circulation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Left anterior descending artery. This artery supplies the structures mentioned due to its location and distribution in the heart. The left anterior descending artery runs along the anterior interventricular groove and provides blood flow to the anterior wall of the left ventricle, anterior interventricular septum, anterior papillary muscles, and apex of the heart. The other choices are incorrect because: B: Left circumflex artery supplies the lateral and posterior walls of the left ventricle. C: Posterior descending artery supplies the inferior part of the heart. D: Aortic artery is not a specific artery that supplies the mentioned structures.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Automaticity. Automaticity refers to the ability of the heart to generate electrical impulses spontaneously, without external stimulation. This allows the heart to initiate its own contractions independently of external influences. Contractility (A) refers to the ability of the heart muscle to contract in response to an electrical stimulus. Excitability (B) refers to the ability of cardiac cells to respond to an electrical stimulus. Rhythmicity (D) refers to the regularity of the heart's electrical impulses. Thus, C is the correct answer as it specifically addresses the heart's ability to generate impulses spontaneously.