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A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of heart failure. The nurse should monitor for signs of which of the following complications?

  • A. Hypoglycemia.
  • B. Pulmonary edema.
  • C. Anemia.
  • D. Hypertension.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pulmonary edema. In heart failure, the heart is unable to pump effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs causing pulmonary edema. This can result in symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Monitoring for pulmonary edema is crucial in heart failure management to prevent respiratory distress and worsening heart function.

Rationale:
A: Hypoglycemia - While patients with heart failure may be at risk for metabolic abnormalities, hypoglycemia is not a common complication directly related to heart failure.
C: Anemia - Anemia can occur in heart failure due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, but it is not a direct complication that requires immediate monitoring like pulmonary edema.
D: Hypertension - Heart failure is characterized by a reduced ability of the heart to pump blood effectively, leading to decreased cardiac output. Therefore, hypertension is not typically a complication seen in heart failure patients.