Exam Cram NCLEX RN Practice Questions Related

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What is the likely cause of pericarditis in a young patient?

  • A. Heart failure
  • B. Acute MI
  • C. Hypertension
  • D. Infectious processes
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In younger patients, pericarditis is typically caused by an infection commonly triggered by viruses like the Coxsackie virus, streptococcus, staphylococcus, or Haemophilus influenzae. Infectious processes are the leading cause of pericarditis in younger individuals. Heart failure, Acute MI, and Hypertension are not common causes of pericarditis in young patients. In older adults, acute myocardial infarction (MI) is a more common cause of pericarditis.