NCLEX RN Medical Surgical Questions and Answers Related

Review NCLEX RN Medical Surgical Questions and Answers related questions and content

The nurse has completed an assessment on a client with a decreased cardiac output. Which findings should receive the highest priority?

  • A. BP 110/62, atrial fibrillation with HR 82, bibasilar crackles.
  • B. Confusion, urine output 15 mL over the last 2 hours, orthopnea.
  • C. SpO2 92 on 2 liters nasal cannula, respirations 20, 1+ edema of lower extremities.
  • D. Weight gain of 1 kg in 3 days, BP 130/80, mild dyspnea with exercise.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Confusion, low urine output, and orthopnea indicate severe heart failure with potential cerebral and renal hypoperfusion, requiring immediate intervention. Other options reflect stable or less urgent findings.