HESI Fundamentals Related

Review HESI Fundamentals related questions and content

A client is admitted with a diagnosis of right-sided heart failure. What assessment finding should the nurse anticipate?

  • A. Jugular vein distention.
  • B. Crackles in the lungs.
  • C. Peripheral edema.
  • D. Hepatomegaly.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In right-sided heart failure, the heart's inability to effectively pump blood to the lungs leads to fluid backup in the systemic circulation, resulting in peripheral edema (swelling in lower extremities). While jugular vein distention (A) and hepatomegaly (D) can also occur in right-sided heart failure, peripheral edema is a hallmark sign due to fluid retention. Crackles in the lungs (B) are more commonly associated with left-sided heart failure, where fluid accumulates in the lungs.