NCLEX PN Test Questions with NGN Related

Review NCLEX PN Test Questions with NGN related questions and content

The nurse has reviewed the information from the Diagnostic Results and Nurses' Notes. For each finding, click to specify whether the finding indicates that the client's status has not changed or has declined

  • A. BP 102/70
  • B. T 100.4 F (38 C)
  • C. Peripheral pulses 1+
  • D. Shortness of breath when recumbent
  • E. Scattered crackles on lung auscultation
Correct Answer:

Rationale: Infective endocarditis (E) requires long-term antibiotic therapy (ie, 4-6 weeks). Fever (eg, T 100.4 F [38 C]) can persist for
several days despite appropriate antibiotic therapy.
In addition to the risk for systemic embolism (eg, stroke), clients with IE are at risk for heart failure if the involved valve
becomes dysfunctional. Decreased capillary oxygen saturation, shortness of breath when recumbent, and scattered
crackles on lung auscultation indicate fluid backup in the lungs. In addition, borderline low blood pressure (compared to
uncontrolled high blood pressure at admission) and decreased peripheral pulses (1+ vs 2+ on admission) indicate decreased
cardiac output and are concerning for heart failure.