ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam 2023 With NGN Questions and Correct Answers Related

Review ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam 2023 With NGN Questions and Correct Answers related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who has left-sided heart failure. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing a decrease in cardiac output?

  • A. Weight gain
  • B. Distended abdomen
  • C. Confusion
  • D. Dyspnea
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Confusion. In left-sided heart failure, decreased cardiac output can lead to decreased perfusion to the brain, resulting in confusion. Weight gain (A) is more indicative of fluid retention, distended abdomen (B) is a sign of ascites or abdominal organ enlargement, and dyspnea (D) is a common symptom of heart failure but not a direct indicator of decreased cardiac output.