ATI RN Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Questions Related

Review ATI RN Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Questions 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: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Dyspnea. In left-sided heart failure, the heart is unable to pump efficiently, leading to a decrease in cardiac output. Dyspnea (shortness of breath) occurs due to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary congestion), indicating decreased cardiac output. Weight gain (A) and distended abdomen (B) are more indicative of right-sided heart failure. Confusion (C) can be a sign of decreased cerebral perfusion, but dyspnea is a more direct indicator of decreased cardiac output in left-sided heart failure.