Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Valvular Disorders of the Heart Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Valvular Disorders of the Heart related questions and content

A client with aortic valve regurgitation is asking about the disease process. What would the nurse tell the client is the first sign of aortic valve regurgitation?

  • A. Tachycardia
  • B. Left-sided heart failure
  • C. Pain
  • D. Dysrhythmias
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Tachycardia is one of the first signs of cardiac compensation. When valve damage affects the left ventricle, the client becomes aware of forceful heart contractions (palpitations). At first, palpitations occur only when lying flat or on the left side. Aortic valve regurgitation does not produce left-sided heart failure, pain, or dysrhythmias as the first symptom of disease.