Valvular Heart Disease Practice Questions

A client is being seen in the clinic to rule out (R/O) mitral valve stenosis. Which assessment data would be most significant? 1. The client complains of shortness of breath when walking. 2. The client has jugular vein distention and 3+ pedal edema. 3. The client complains of chest pain after eating a large meal. 4. The client's liver is enlarged and the abdomen is edematous.

1 1. Dyspnea on exertion (DOE) is typically the earliest manifestation of mitral valve stenosis. 2. Jugular vein distention (JVD) and 3+ pedal edema are signs/symptoms of right-sided heart failure and indicate worsening of the mitral valve stenosis. These signs would not be expected in a client with early manifestations of mitral valve stenosis. 3. Chest pain rarely occurs with mitral valve stenosis. 4. An enlarged liver and edematous abdomen are late signs of right-sided heart failure that can occur with long-term untreated mitral valve stenosis. TEST-TAKING HINT: Whenever the test taker reads "rule out," the test taker should look for data that would not indicate a severe condition of the body system that is affected. Chest pain, JVD, and pedal edema are late signs of heart problems

The client had open-heart surgery to replace the mitral valve. Which intervention should the intensive care unit nurse implement? 1. Restrict the client's fluids as ordered. 2. Keep the client in the supine position. 3. Maintain oxygen saturation at 90%. 4. Monitor the total parenteral nutrition.

1 1. Fluid intake may be restricted to reduce the cardiac workload and pressures within the heart and pulmonary circuit. 2. The head of the bed should be elevated to help improve alveolar ventilation. 3. Oxygen saturation should be no less than 93%; 90% indicates an arterial oxygen saturation of around 60 (normal is 80 to 100). 4. Total parenteral nutrition would not be prescribed for a client with mitral valve replacement. It is ordered for clients with malnutrition, gastrointestinal disorders, or conditions in which increased calories are needed, such as burns. TEST-TAKING HINT: A client with a heart or lung problem should never have the head of the bed in a flat (supine) position; therefore, option "2" should be eliminated as a possible correct answer. The test taker must know normal values for monitoring techniques such as pulse oximeters and keep a list of normal values.

The client with a mechanical valve replacement asks the nurse, "Why do I have to take antibiotics before getting my teeth cleaned?" Which response by the nurse is most appropriate? 1. "You are at risk of developing an infection in your heart." 2. "Your teeth will not bleed as much if you have antibiotics." 3. "This procedure may cause your valve to malfunction." 4. "Antibiotics will prevent vegetative growth on your valves."

1 1. The client is at risk for developing endocarditis and should take prophylactic antibiotics before any invasive procedure. 2. Antibiotics have nothing to do with how much the teeth bleed during a cleaning. 3. Teeth cleaning will not cause the valve to malfunction. 4. Vegetation develops on valves secondary to bacteria that cause endocarditis, but the client may not understand "vegetative growth on your valves"; therefore, this is not the most appropriate answer. TEST-TAKING HINT: The test taker should select an option that answers the client's question in the easiest and most understandable terms, not in medical jargon. This would cause the test taker to eliminate option "4" as a possible correct answer. The test taker should know antibiotics do not affect bleeding and so can eliminate option "2."

The nurse is preparing to administer warfarin (Coumadin), an oral anticoagulant, to a client with a mechanical valve replacement. The client's INR is 2.7. Which action should the nurse implement? 1. Administer the medication as ordered. 2. Prepare to administer vitamin K (AquaMephyton). 3. Hold the medication and notify the HCP. 4. Assess the client for abnormal bleeding

1 1. The therapeutic range for most clients' INR is 2 to 3, but for a client with a mechanical valve replacement it is 2 to 3.5. The medication should be given as ordered and not withheld. 2. Vitamin K is the antidote for an overdose of warfarin, but 2.7 is within the therapeutic range. 3. This laboratory result is within the therapeutic range, INR 2 to 3, and the medication does not need to be withheld. 4. There is no need for the nurse to assess for bleeding because 2.7 is within the therapeutic range. TEST-TAKING HINT: The test taker has to know the therapeutic range for the INR to be able to answer this question correctly. The test taker should keep a list of normal and therapeutic laboratory values that must be remembered. Content - Medical: I

The most effective measure the nurse can use to prevent wound infection when changing a client's dressing after coronary artery bypass surgery is to: 1.Observe careful handwashing procedures. 2.Clean the incisional area with an antiseptic. 3.Use prepackaged sterile dressings to cover the incision. 4.Place soiled dressings in a waterproof bag before disposing of them

1 Many factors help prevent wound infections, including washing hands carefully, using sterile prepackaged supplies and equipment, cleaning the incisional area well, and disposing of soiled dressings properly. However, most authorities say that the single most effective measure in preventing wound infections is to wash the hands carefully before and after changing dressings. Careful hand washing is also important in reducing other infections often acquired in hospitals, such as urinary tract and respiratory tract infections

A client has mitral stenosis and will have a valve replacement. The nurse is instructing the client about health maintenance prior to surgery. Inability to follow which of the following regimens would pose the greatest health hazard to this client at this time? 1.Medication therapy. 2.Diet modification. 3.Activity restrictions. 4.Dental care.

1 Preoperatively, anticoagulants may be prescribed for the client with advanced valvular heart disease to prevent emboli. Postoperatively, all clients with mechanical valves and some clients with bioprosthesis are maintained indefinitely on anticoagulant therapy. Adhering strictly to a dosage schedule and observing specific precautions are necessary to prevent hemorrhage or thromboembolism. Some clients are maintained on lifelong antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent recurrence of rheumatic fever. Episodic prophylaxis is required to prevent infective endocarditis after dental procedures or upper respiratory, gastrointestinal, or genitourinary tract surgery. Diet modification, activity restrictions, and dental care are important; however, they do not have as much significance postoperatively as medication therapy does.

Three days after mitral valve replacement surgery, the client tells the nurse there is a "clicking" noise coming from the chest incision and the incision seems to becoming larger. The nurse's response should reflect the understanding that the client may be experiencing which of the following? 1.Anxiety related to altered body image. 2.Anxiety related to altered health status. 3.Altered tissue perfusion. 4.Lack of knowledge regarding the postoperative course.

1 Verbalized concerns from this client may stem from anxiety over the changes in the body after open heart surgery. Although the client may experience anxiety related to altered health status or may have a lack of knowledge regarding the postoperative course, the client is pointing out the changes in the body image. The client is not concerned about altered tissue perfusion.

Which signs/symptoms should the nurse assess in any client who has a long-term valvular heart disease? Select all that apply. 1. Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. 2. Orthopnea. 3. Cough. 4. Pericardial friction rub. 5. Pulsus paradoxus

1,2,3, 1. Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea is a sudden attack of respiratory distress, usually occurring at night because of the reclining position, and occurs in valvular disorders. 2. This is an abnormal condition in which a client must sit or stand to breathe comfortably and occurs in valvular disorders. 3. Coughing occurs when the client with long-term valvular disease has difficulty breathing when walking or performing any type of activity. 4. Pericardial friction rub is a sound auscultated in clients with pericarditis, not valvular heart disease. 5. Pulsus paradoxus is a marked decrease in amplitude during inspiration. It is a sign of cardiac tamponade, not valvular heart disease. TEST-TAKING HINT: The test taker should notice that options "1," "2," and "3" are all signs/symptoms that have something to do with the lungs. It would be a good choice to select these three as correct answers. They are similar in description.

Good dental care is an important measure in reducing the risk of endocarditis. A teaching plan to promote good dental care in a client with mitral stenosis should include instructing the client to do which of the following? Select all that apply. 1.Brush the teeth at least twice a day. 2.Avoid use of an electric toothbrush. 3.Take an antibiotic prior to oral surgery. 4.Floss the teeth at least once a day. 5.Have regular dental checkups. 6.Rinse the mouth with an antibiotic mouthwash once a day.

1,4,5 Daily dental care including brushing the teeth twice a day and flossing once a day and frequent checkups by a dentist who is informed about the client's condition are required to maintain good oral health. The client can use a regular tooth brush; it is not necessary to avoid use of an electric toothbrush. Taking antibiotics prior to certain dental procedures is recommended only if the client has a prosthetic valve or a heart transplant. It is not necessary to use an antibiotic mouthwash.

Which client would the nurse suspect of having a mitral valve prolapse? 1. A 60-year-old female with congestive heart failure. 2. A 23-year-old male with Marfan's syndrome. 3. An 80-year-old male with atrial fibrillation. 4. A 33-year-old female with Down syndrome.

2 1. Congestive heart failure does not predispose the female client to having a mitral valve prolapse. 2. Clients with Marfan's syndrome have lifethreatening cardiovascular problems, including mitral valve prolapse, progressive dilation of the aortic valve ring, and weakness of the arterial walls, and they usually do not live past the age of 40 because of dissection and rupture of the aorta. 3. Atrial fibrillation does not predispose a client to mitral valve prolapse. 4. A client with Down syndrome may have congenital heart anomalies but not mitral valve prolapse. TEST-TAKING HINT: The test taker could eliminate options "1" and "3" based on knowledge that these are commonly occurring cardiovascular problems, and the nurse should know that possible complications of these problems do not include mitral valve prolapse

Which assessment data would the nurse expect to auscultate in the client diagnosed with mitral valve insufficiency? 1. A loud S1, S2 split, and a mitral opening snap. 2. A holosystolic murmur heard best at the cardiac apex. 3. A midsystolic ejection click or murmur heard at the base. 4. A high-pitched sound heard at the third left intercostal space.

2 1. This would be expected with mitral valve stenosis. 2. The murmur associated with mitral valve insufficiency is loud, high pitched, rumbling, and holosystolic (occurring throughout systole) and is heard best at the cardiac apex. 3. This would be expected with mitral valve prolapse. 4. This would be expected with aortic regurgitation. TEST-TAKING HINT: This is a knowledge-based question and there is no test-taking hint to help the test taker rule out distracters.

Before a client's discharge after mitral valve replacement surgery, the nurse should evaluate the client's understanding of postsurgery activity restrictions. Which of the following should the client not engage in until after the 1-month postdischarge appointment with the surgeon? 1.Showering. 2.Lifting anything heavier than 10 lb (4.5 kg). 3.A program of gradually progressive walking. 4.Light housework.

2 Most cardiac surgical clients have median sternotomy incisions, which take about 3 months to heal. Measures that promote healing include avoiding heavy lifting, performing muscle reconditioning exercises, and using caution when driving. Showering or bathing is allowed as long as the incision is well approximated with no open areas or drainage. Activities should be gradually resumed on discharge.

A pulmonary artery catheter is inserted in a client with severe mitral stenosis and regurgitation. The nurse administers furosemide (Lasix) to treat pulmonary congestion and begins a Nitroprusside (Nipride) drip per physician prescriptions. The nurse notices a sudden drop in the pulmonary artery diastolic pressure and pulmonary artery wedge pressure. The nurse should first assess: 1.12-lead EKG. 2.Blood pressure. 3.Lung sounds. 4.Urine output.

2 The nurse should immediately assess the blood pressure since Nipride and Lasix can cause severe hypotension from a decrease in preload and afterload. If the client is hypotensive, the Nipride dose should be reduced or discontinued. Urine output should then be monitored to make sure there is adequate renal perfusion. A 12-lead EKG is performed if the client experiences chest pain. A reduction in pulmonary artery pressures should improve the pulmonary congestion and lung sounds.

An elderly client with diabetes who has been maintained on metformin (Glucophage) has been scheduled for a cardiac catheterization. The nurse should verify that the physician has written a prescription to: 1.Limit the amount of protein in the diet prior to the cardiac cath. 2.Withhold the Glucophage prior to the cardiac catheterization. 3.Administer the Glucophage with only a sip of water prior to the cardiac catheterization. 4.Give the Glucophage before breakfast.

2 The nurse should verify that the physician has requested to withhold the Glucophage prior to any procedure requiring dye such as a cardiac catheterization due to the increased risk of lactic acidosis. Additionally, the drug will usually be withheld for up to 48 hours following a procedure involving dye while it clears the client's system. The physician may prescribe sliding scale insulin during this time if needed. Regardless of how or when the medication is administered, the medication should be withheld. The amount of protein in the client's diet prior to the cardiac catheterization has no correlation with the medication or the test.

A client is scheduled for a cardiac catheterization. The nurse should do which of the following preprocedure tasks? Select all that apply. 1.Administer all prescribed oral medications. 2.Check for iodine sensitivity. 3.Verify that written consent has been obtained. 4.Withhold food and oral fluids before the procedure. 5.Insert a urinary drainage catheter

2,3,4 For clients scheduled for a cardiac catheterization it is important to assess for iodine sensitivity, verify written consent, and instruct the client to take nothing by mouth for 6 to 18 hours before the procedure. Oral medications are withheld unless specifically prescribed. A urinary drainage catheter is rarely required for this procedure.

A client who has undergone a mitral valve replacement has persistent bleeding from the sternal incision during the early postoperative period. The nurse should do which of the following? Select all that apply. 1.Administer warfarin. 2.Check the postoperative CBC, INR, PTT, and platelet levels. 3.Confirm availability of blood products. 4.Monitor the mediastinal chest tube drainage. 5.Start a dopamine drip for a systolic BP less than 100.

2,3,4 The hemoglobin and hematocrit should be assessed to evaluate blood loss. An elevated INR and PTT and decreased platelet count increase the risk for bleeding. The client may require blood products depending on lab values and severity of bleeding; therefore, availability of blood products should be confirmed by calling the blood bank. Close monitoring of blood loss from the mediastinal chest tubes should be done. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that will increase bleeding. Anticoagulation should be held at this time. Information is needed on the type of valve replacement. For a mechanical heart valve, the INR is kept at 2 to 3.5. Tissue valves do not require anticoagulation. Dopamine should NOT be initiated if the client is hypotensive from hypovolemia. Fluid volume assessment should always be done first. Volume replacement should be initiated in a hypovolemic client prior to starting an inotrope such as dopamine

The client has just received a mechanical valve replacement. Which behavior by the client indicates the client needs more teaching? 1. The client takes prophylactic antibiotics. 2. The client uses a soft-bristle toothbrush. 3. The client takes an enteric-coated aspirin daily. 4. The client alternates rest with activity

3 1. Prophylactic antibiotics before invasive procedures prevent infectious endocarditis. 2. The client is undergoing anticoagulant therapy and should use a soft-bristle toothbrush to help prevent gum trauma and bleeding. 3. Aspirin and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) interfere with clotting and may potentiate the effects of the anticoagulant therapy, which the client with a mechanical valve will be prescribed. Therefore, the client should not take aspirin daily. 4. The client should alternate rest with activity to prevent fatigue to help decrease the workload of the heart. TEST-TAKING HINT: The stem asks the test taker to identify which behavior means the client does not understand the teaching. Therefore, the test taker should select the distracter that does not agree with the condition. There is no condition for which alternating rest with activity would not be recommended

The nurse should teach the client who is receiving warfarin sodium that: 1.Partial thromboplastin time values determine the dosage of warfarin sodium. 2.Protamine sulfate is used to reverse the effects of warfarin sodium. 3.International Normalized Ratio (INR) is used to assess effectiveness. 4.Warfarin sodium will facilitate clotting of the blood.

3 INR is the value used to assess effectiveness of the warfarin sodium therapy. INR is the prothrombin time ratio that would be obtained if the thromboplastin reagent from the World Health Organization was used for the plasma test. It is now the recommended method to monitor effectiveness of warfarin sodium. Generally, the INR for clients administered warfarin sodium should range from 2 to 3. In the past, prothrombin time was used to assess effectiveness of warfarin sodium and was maintained at 1.5 to 2.5 times the control value. Partial thromboplastin time is used to assess the effectiveness of heparin therapy. Fresh frozen plasma or vitamin K is used to reverse warfarin sodium's anticoagulant effect, whereas protamine sulfate reverses the effects of heparin. Warfarin sodium will help to prevent blood clots

A client has returned from the cardiac catheterization laboratory after a balloon valvuloplasty for mitral stenosis. Which of the following requires immediate nursing action? 1.A low, grade 1 intensity mitral regurgitation murmur. 2.SpO2 is 94% on 2 L of oxygen via nasal cannula. 3.The client has become more somnolent. 4.Urine output has decreased from 60 mL/h to 40 mL over the last hour.

3. A complication of balloon valvuloplasty is emboli resulting in a stroke. The client's increased drowsiness should be evaluated. Some degree of mitral regurgitation is common after the procedure. The oxygen status and urine output should be monitored closely, but do not warrant concern.

Which is the most important initial postprocedure nursing assessment for a client who has had a cardiac catheterization? 1.Monitor the laboratory values. 2.Observe neurologic function every 15 minutes. 3.Observe the puncture site for swelling and bleeding. 4.Monitor skin warmth and turgor.

3. Assessment of circulatory status, including observation of the puncture site, is of primary importance after a cardiac catheterization. Laboratory values and skin warmth and turgor are important to monitor but are not the most important initial nursing assessment. Neurologic assessment every 15 minutes is not required.

The client is being evaluated for valvular heart disease. Which information would be most significant? 1. The client has a history of coronary artery disease. 2. There is a family history of valvular heart disease. 3. The client has a history of smoking for 10 years. 4. The client has a history of rheumatic heart disease.

4 1. An acute myocardial infarction can damage heart valves, causing tearing, ischemia, or damage to heart muscles that affects valve leaflet function, but coronary heart disease does not cause valvular heart disease. 2. Valvular heart disease does not show a genetic etiology. 3. Smoking can cause coronary artery disease, but it does not cause valvular heart disease. 4. Rheumatic heart disease is the most common cause of valvular heart disease. TEST-TAKING HINT: The test taker could rule out option "1" because of knowledge of anatomy: Coronary artery disease has to do with blood supply to heart muscle, whereas the valves are a part of the anatomy of the heart.

The nurse is teaching a class on valve replacements. Which statement identifies a disadvantage of having a biological tissue valve replacement? 1. The client must take lifetime anticoagulant therapy. 2. The client's infections are easier to treat. 3. There is a low incidence of thromboembolism. 4. The valve has to be replaced frequently

4 1. An advantage of having a biological valve replacement is that no anticoagulant therapy is needed. Anticoagulant therapy is needed with a mechanical valve replacement. 2. This is an advantage of having a biological valve replacement; infections are harder to treat in clients with mechanical valve replacement. 3. This is an advantage of having a biological valve replacement; there is a high incidence of thromboembolism in clients with mechanical valve replacement. 4. Biological valves deteriorate and need to be replaced frequently; this is a disadvantage of them. Mechanical valves do not deteriorate and do not have to be replaced often. TEST-TAKING HINT: This is an "except" question. The test taker might reverse the question and ask, "Which is an advantage of a biological valve?"—which might make answering the question easier.

The client who has just had a percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty is in the recovery room. Which intervention should the Post Anesthesia Care Unit nurse implement? 1. Assess the client's chest tube output. 2. Monitor the client's chest dressing. 3. Evaluate the client's endotracheal (ET) lip line. 4. Keep the client's affected leg straight.

4 1. Percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty is not an open-heart surgery; therefore, the chest will not be open and the client will not have a chest tube. 2. This is not an open-heart surgery; therefore, the client will not have a chest dressing. 3. The endotracheal (ET) tube is inserted if the client is on a ventilator, and this surgery does not require putting the client on a ventilator. 4. In this invasive procedure, performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory, the client has a catheter inserted into the femoral artery. Therefore, the client must keep the leg straight to prevent hemorrhaging at the insertion site. TEST-TAKING HINT: If the test taker knows that the word "percutaneous" means "via the skin," then options "1" and "2" could be eliminated as possible correct answers.

In preparing the client and the family for a postoperative stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) after open heart surgery, the nurse should explain that: 1.The client will remain in the ICU for 5 days. 2.The client will sleep most of the time while in the ICU. 3.Noise and activity within the ICU are minimal. 4.The client will receive medication to relieve pain.

4 Management of postoperative pain is a priority for the client after surgery, including valve replacement surgery. The client and family should be informed that pain will be assessed by the nurse and medications will be given to relieve the pain. The client will stay in the ICU as long as monitoring and intensive care are needed. Sensory deprivation and overload, high noise levels, and disrupted sleep and rest patterns are some environmental factors that affect recovery from valve replacement surgery.

The nurse is caring for a 78-year-old patient with aortic stenosis. Which assessment data obtained by the nurse would be most important to report to the health care provider? a. The patient complains of chest pressure when ambulating. b. A loud systolic murmur is heard along the right sternal border. c. A thrill is palpated at the second intercostal space, right sternal border. d. The point of maximum impulse (PMI) is at the left midclavicular line.

ANS: A Chest pressure (or pain) occurring with aortic stenosis is caused by cardiac ischemia, and reporting this information would be a priority. A systolic murmur and thrill are expected in a patient with aortic stenosis. A PMI at the left midclavicular line is normal

The nurse is caring for a 64-year-old patient admitted with mitral valve regurgitation. Which information obtained by the nurse when assessing the patient should be communicated to the health care provider immediately? a. The patient has bilateral crackles. b. The patient has bilateral, 4+ peripheral edema. c. The patient has a loud systolic murmur across the precordium. d. The patient has a palpable thrill felt over the left anterior chest.

ANS: A Crackles that are audible throughout the lungs indicate that the patient is experiencing severe left ventricular failure with pulmonary congestion and needs immediate interventions such as diuretics. A systolic murmur and palpable thrill would be expected in a patient with mitral regurgitation. Although 4+ peripheral edema indicates a need for a change in therapy, it does not need to be addressed urgently

A patient is admitted to the hospital with possible acute pericarditis. The nurse should plan to teach the patient about the purpose of a. echocardiography. b. daily blood cultures. c. cardiac catheterization. d. 24-hour Holter monitor.

ANS: A Echocardiograms are useful in detecting the presence of the pericardial effusions associated with pericarditis. Blood cultures are not indicated unless the patient has evidence of sepsis. Cardiac catheterization and 24-hour Holter monitor is not a diagnostic procedure for pericarditis

The nurse suspects cardiac tamponade in a patient who has acute pericarditis. To assess for the presence of pulsus paradoxus, the nurse should a. note when Korotkoff sounds are auscultated during both inspiration and expiration. b. subtract the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) from the systolic blood pressure (SBP). c. check the electrocardiogram (ECG) for variations in rate during the respiratory cycle. d. listen for a pericardial friction rub that persists when the patient is instructed to

ANS: A Pulsus paradoxus exists when there is a gap of greater than 10 mm Hg between when Korotkoff sounds can be heard during only expiration and when they can be heard throughout the respiratory cycle. The other methods described would not be useful in determining the presence of pulsus paradoxus

The nurse identifies the nursing diagnosis of decreased cardiac output related to valvular insufficiency for the patient with infective endocarditis (IE) based on which assessment finding(s)? a. Fever, chills, and diaphoresis b. Urine output less than 30 mL/hr c. Petechiae on the inside of the mouth and conjunctiva d. Increase in heart rate of 15 beats/minute with walking

ANS: B Decreased renal perfusion caused by inadequate cardiac output will lead to decreased urine output. Petechiae, fever, chills, and diaphoresis are symptoms of IE, but are not caused by decreased cardiac output. An increase in pulse rate of 15 beats/minute is normal with exercise

After receiving report on the following patients, which patient should the nurse assess first? a. Patient with rheumatic fever who has sharp chest pain with a deep breath b. Patient with acute aortic regurgitation whose blood pressure is 86/54 mm Hg c. Patient with infective endocarditis who has a murmur and splinter hemorrhages d. Patient with dilated cardiomyopathy who has bilateral crackles at the lung bases

ANS: B Hypotension in patients with acute aortic regurgitation may indicate cardiogenic shock. The nurse should immediately assess this patient for other findings such as dyspnea or chest pain. The findings in the other patients are typical of their diagnoses and do not indicate a need for urgent assessment and intervention

During the assessment of a 25-year-old patient with infective endocarditis (IE), the nurse would expect to find a. substernal chest pressure. b. a new regurgitant murmur. c. a pruritic rash on the chest. d. involuntary muscle movement.

ANS: B New regurgitant murmurs occur in IE because vegetations on the valves prevent valve closure. Substernal chest discomfort, rashes, and involuntary muscle movement are clinical manifestations of other cardiac disorders such as angina and rheumatic fever

To assess the patient with pericarditis for evidence of a pericardial friction rub, the nurse should a. listen for a rumbling, low-pitched, systolic murmur over the left anterior chest. b. auscultate by placing the diaphragm of the stethoscope on the lower left sternal border. c. ask the patient to cough during auscultation to distinguish the sound from a pleural friction rub. d. feel the precordial area with the palm of the hand to detect vibrations with cardiac contraction.

ANS: B Pericardial friction rubs are heard best with the diaphragm at the lower left sternal border. The nurse should ask the patient to hold his or her breath during auscultation to distinguish the sounds from a pleural friction rub. Friction rubs are not typically low pitched or rumbling and are not confined to systole. Rubs are not assessed by palpation

The nurse is admitting a patient with possible rheumatic fever. Which question on the admission health history will be most pertinent to ask? a. "Do you use any illegal IV drugs?" b. "Have you had a recent sore throat?" c. "Have you injured your chest in the last few weeks?" d. "Do you have a family history of congenital heart disease?"

ANS: B Rheumatic fever occurs as a result of an abnormal immune response to a streptococcal infection. Although illicit IV drug use should be discussed with the patient before discharge, it is not a risk factor for rheumatic fever, and would not be as pertinent when admitting the patient. Family history is not a risk factor for rheumatic fever. Chest injury would cause musculoskeletal chest pain rather than rheumatic fever.

Which assessment finding in a patient who is admitted with infective endocarditis (IE) is most important to communicate to the health care provider? a. Generalized muscle aching b. Sudden onset right flank pain c. Janeway's lesions on the palms d. Temperature 100.7° F (38.1° C)

ANS: B Sudden onset of flank pain indicates possible embolization to the kidney and may require diagnostic testing such as a renal arteriogram and interventions to improve renal perfusion. The other findings are typically found in IE, but do not require any new interventions

When planning care for a patient hospitalized with a streptococcal infective endocarditis (IE), which intervention is a priority for the nurse to include? a. Monitor labs for streptococcal antibodies. b. Arrange for placement of a long-term IV catheter. c. Teach the importance of completing all oral antibiotics. d. Encourage the patient to begin regular aerobic exercise.

ANS: B Treatment for IE involves 4 to 6 weeks of IV antibiotic therapy in order to eradicate the bacteria, which will require a long-term IV catheter such as a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line. Rest periods and limiting physical activity to a moderate level are recommended during the treatment for IE. Oral antibiotics are not effective in eradicating the infective bacteria that cause IE. Blood cultures, rather than antibody levels, are used to monitor the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy

Which admission order written by the health care provider for a patient admitted with infective endocarditis (IE) and a fever would be a priority for the nurse to implement? a. Administer ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 1 g IV. b. Order blood cultures drawn from two sites. c. Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) PRN for fever. d. Arrange for a transesophageal echocardiogram.

ANS: B Treatment of the IE with antibiotics should be started as quickly as possible, but it is essential to obtain blood cultures before initiating antibiotic therapy to obtain accurate sensitivity results. The echocardiogram and acetaminophen administration also should be implemented rapidly, but the blood cultures (and then administration of the antibiotic) have the highest priority

During discharge teaching with a 68-year-old patient who had a mitral valve replacement with a mechanical valve, the nurse instructs the patient on the a. use of daily aspirin for anticoagulation. b. correct method for taking the radial pulse. c. need for frequent laboratory blood testing. d. need to avoid any physical activity for 1 month.

ANS: C Anticoagulation with warfarin (Coumadin) is needed for a patient with mechanical valves to prevent clotting on the valve. This will require frequent international normalized ratio (INR) testing. Daily aspirin use will not be effective in reducing the risk for clots on the valve. Monitoring of the radial pulse is not necessary after valve replacement. Patients should resume activities of daily living as tolerated

Which action by the nurse will determine if the therapies ordered for a patient with chronic constrictive pericarditis are effective? a. Assess for the presence of a paradoxical pulse. b. Monitor for changes in the patient's sedimentation rate. c. Assess for the presence of jugular venous distention (JVD). d. Check the electrocardiogram (ECG) for ST segment changes.

ANS: C Because the most common finding on physical examination for a patient with chronic constrictive pericarditis is jugular venous distention, a decrease in JVD indicates improvement. Paradoxical pulse, ST-segment ECG changes, and changes in sedimentation rates occur with acute pericarditis but are not expected in chronic constrictive pericarditis

The nurse will plan discharge teaching about the need for prophylactic antibiotics when having dental procedures for which patient? a. Patient admitted with a large acute myocardial infarction. b. Patient being discharged after an exacerbation of heart failure. c. Patient who had a mitral valve replacement with a mechanical valve. d. Patient being treated for rheumatic fever after a streptococcal infection.

ANS: C Current American Heart Association guidelines recommend the use of prophylactic antibiotics before dental procedures for patients with prosthetic valves to prevent infective endocarditis (IE). The other patients are not at risk for IE

When caring for a patient with infective endocarditis of the tricuspid valve, the nurse should monitor the patient for the development of a. flank pain. b. splenomegaly. c. shortness of breath. d. mental status changes.

ANS: C Embolization from the tricuspid valve would cause symptoms of pulmonary embolus. Flank pain, changes in mental status, and splenomegaly would be associated with embolization from the left-sided valves

A 21-year-old woman is scheduled for percutaneous transluminal balloon valvuloplasty to treat mitral stenosis. Which information should the nurse include when explaining the advantages of valvuloplasty over valve replacement to the patient? a. Biologic valves will require immunosuppressive drugs after surgery. b. Mechanical mitral valves need to be replaced sooner than biologic valves. c. Lifelong anticoagulant therapy will be needed after mechanical valve replacement. d. Ongoing cardiac ca

ANS: C Long-term anticoagulation therapy is needed after mechanical valve replacement, and this would restrict decisions about career and childbearing in this patient. Mechanical valves are durable and last longer than biologic valves. All valve repair procedures are palliative, not curative, and require lifelong health care. Biologic valves do not activate the immune system, and immunosuppressive therapy is not needed

Which statement by a patient with restrictive cardiomyopathy indicates that the nurse's discharge teaching about self-management has been most effective? a. "I will avoid taking aspirin or other antiinflammatory drugs." b. "I will need to limit my intake of salt and fluids even in hot weather." c. "I will take antibiotics when my teeth are cleaned at the dental office." d. "I should begin an exercise program that includes things like biking or swimming."

ANS: C Patients with restrictive cardiomyopathy are at risk for infective endocarditis and should use prophylactic antibiotics for any procedure that may cause bacteremia. The other statements indicate a need for more teaching by the nurse. Dehydration and vigorous exercise impair ventricular filling in patients with restrictive cardiomyopathy. There is no need to avoid salt (unless ordered), aspirin, or NSAIDs

Which assessment finding obtained by the nurse when assessing a patient with acute pericarditis should be reported immediately to the health care provider? a. Pulsus paradoxus 8 mm Hg b. Blood pressure (BP) of 168/94 c. Jugular venous distention (JVD) to jaw level d. Level 6 (0 to 10 scale) chest pain with a deep breath

ANS: C The JVD indicates that the patient may have developed cardiac tamponade and may need rapid intervention to maintain adequate cardiac output. Hypertension would not be associated with complications of pericarditis, and the BP is not high enough to indicate that there is any immediate need to call the health care provider. A pulsus paradoxus of 8 mm Hg is normal. Level 6/10 chest pain should be treated but is not unusual with pericarditis

A patient recovering from heart surgery develops pericarditis and complains of level 6 (0 to 10 scale) chest pain with deep breathing. Which ordered PRN medication will be the most appropriate for the nurse to give? a. Fentanyl 1 mg IV b. IV morphine sulfate 4 mg c. Oral ibuprofen (Motrin) 600 mg d. Oral acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg

ANS: C The pain associated with pericarditis is caused by inflammation, so nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., ibuprofen) are most effective. Opioid analgesics are usually not used for the pain associated with pericarditis

When caring for a patient with mitral valve stenosis, it is most important that the nurse assess for a. diastolic murmur. b. peripheral edema. c. shortness of breath on exertion. d. right upper quadrant tenderness.

ANS: C The pressure gradient changes in mitral stenosis lead to fluid backup into the lungs, resulting in hypoxemia and dyspnea. The other findings also may be associated with mitral valve disease but are not indicators of possible hypoxemia

The nurse is obtaining a health history from a 24-year-old patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HC). Which information obtained by the nurse is most important? a. The patient has a history of a recent upper respiratory infection. b. The patient has a family history of coronary artery disease (CAD). c. The patient reports using cocaine a "couple of times" as a teenager. d. The patient's 29-year-old brother died from a sudden cardiac arrest.

ANS: D About half of all cases of HC have a genetic basis, and it is the most common cause of sudden cardiac death in otherwise healthy young people. The information about the patient's brother will be helpful in planning care (such as an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator [AICD]) for the patient and in counseling other family members. The patient should be counseled against the use of stimulant drugs, but the limited past history indicates that the patient is not at current risk for cocaine use. Viral infections and CAD are risk factors for dilated cardiomyopathy, but not for HC

The nurse obtains a health history from a 65-year-old patient with a prosthetic mitral valve who has symptoms of infective endocarditis (IE). Which question by the nurse is most appropriate? a. "Do you have a history of a heart attack?" b. "Is there a family history of endocarditis?" c. "Have you had any recent immunizations?" d. "Have you had dental work done recently?"

ANS: D Dental procedures place the patient with a prosthetic mitral valve at risk for infective endocarditis (IE). Myocardial infarction (MI), immunizations, and a family history of endocarditis are not risk factors for IE.

The nurse has identified a nursing diagnosis of acute pain related to inflammatory process for a patient with acute pericarditis. The priority intervention by the nurse for this problem is to a. teach the patient to take deep, slow breaths to control the pain. b. force fluids to 3000 mL/day to decrease fever and inflammation. c. remind the patient to request opioid pain medication every 4 hours. d. place the patient in Fowler's position, leaning forward on the overbed table.

ANS: D Sitting upright and leaning forward frequently will decrease the pain associated with pericarditis. Forcing fluids will not decrease the inflammation or pain. Taking deep breaths will tend to increase pericardial pain. Opioids are not very effective at controlling pain caused by acute inflammatory conditions and are usually ordered PRN. The patient would receive scheduled doses of a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID).

A patient admitted with acute dyspnea is newly diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy. Which information will the nurse plan to teach the patient about managing this disorder? a. A heart transplant should be scheduled as soon as possible. b. Elevating the legs above the heart will help relieve dyspnea. c. Careful compliance with diet and medications will prevent heart failure. d. Notify the doctor about any symptoms of heart failure such as shortness of breath.

ANS: D The patient should be instructed to notify the health care provider about any worsening of heart failure symptoms. Because dilated cardiomyopathy does not respond well to therapy, even patients with good compliance with therapy may have recurrent episodes of heart failure. Elevation of the legs above the heart will worsen symptoms (although this approach is appropriate for a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). The patient with terminal or end-stage cardiomyopathy may consider heart transplantation

While caring for a 23-year-old patient with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) without valvular regurgitation, the nurse determines that discharge teaching has been effective when the patient states that it will be necessary to a. take antibiotics before any dental appointments. b. limit physical activity to avoid stressing the heart. c. take an aspirin a day to prevent clots from forming on the valve. d. avoid use of over-the-counter (OTC) medications that contain stimulant drugs.

ANS: D Use of stimulant medications should be avoided by patients with MVP because these may exacerbate symptoms. Daily aspirin and restricted physical activity are not needed by patients with mild MVP. Antibiotic prophylaxis is needed for patients with MVP with regurgitation but will not be necessary for this patient