Physical Exam Cardiovascular System Related

Review Physical Exam Cardiovascular System related questions and content

The diagnostic test that is most useful in differentiating the dyspnea related to pulmonary effects of heart failure from the dyspnea of pulmonary disease is

  • A. Exercise stress testing
  • B. A cardiac catheterization
  • C. B-type natriuretic peptide (bNP) levels
  • D. Serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: bNP is released from the ventricles in response to ventricular stretch and is a good marker for heart failure. If the bNP is elevated, shortness of breath is due to heart failure.