PN Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Related

Review PN Adult Medical Surgical 2023 related questions and content

A nurse is collecting data from a client who has heart failure. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

  • A. Activity tolerance
  • B. Weight
  • C. Chest x-ray results
  • D. Echocardiogram results
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Heart failure management hinges on detecting decompensation, where weight gain from fluid retention is a red flag. Sudden increases (e.g., 2-3 lbs overnight) signal worsening congestion, necessitating prompt provider action like diuretic adjustment. Activity tolerance reflects functional status but is subjective and less urgent unless acutely dropping. Chest x-ray results show pulmonary edema or cardiomegaly, but weight offers earlier, actionable data. Echocardiogram results assess heart function long-term, not immediate changes. Daily weight monitoring is a cornerstone of heart failure care fluid overload precedes symptoms like dyspnea, making it the priority to report. This aligns with clinical guidelines (e.g., ACC/AHA), enabling timely intervention to prevent hospitalization or acute failure, emphasizing its critical role in ongoing assessment.