What is a chronic condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs and other parts of the body?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Heart failure is the correct answer because it is a chronic condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively.
Step 2: This ineffective pumping leads to fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary congestion) and other parts of the body (edema).
Step 3: Myocardial infarction (B) is incorrect as it is an acute condition resulting from a blockage in coronary arteries causing heart muscle damage.
Step 4: Pericarditis (C) is incorrect as it is inflammation of the pericardium, the outer lining of the heart, not directly related to heart pumping efficiency.
Step 5: Pulmonary edema (D) is incorrect as it specifically refers to fluid accumulation in the lungs, not necessarily linked to heart failure.