A) This choice is incorrect because sudden weight gain, shortness of breath, and ankle swelling are not normal with CHF and may indicate worsening of the condition. The nurse should not reassure the client but rather take appropriate action to address the symptoms.

B) This choice is incorrect because the client's symptoms suggest fluid retention, and increasing fluid intake would exacerbate the condition. The nurse should not encourage the client to increase fluid intake without consulting the healthcare provider.

C) This choice is correct. The client's sudden weight gain, shortness of breath, and ankle swelling are signs of worsening congestive heart failure. The nurse's priority action is to notify the healthcare provider immediately to address the client's worsening condition and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

D) This choice is incorrect because administering a diuretic is not within the nurse's scope of practice without a healthcare provider's order. The nurse should first notify the healthcare provider to evaluate the client's condition and determine the appropriate intervention.

A) This choice is correct. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a significant risk factor for congestive heart failure (CHF). Prolonged hypertension can lead to the heart's increased workload, causing it to weaken over time and eventually leading to CHF. The client's symptoms of fatigue, difficulty breathing, and nocturia (frequent urination at night) are common manifestations of CHF resulting from uncontrolled hypertension.

B) This choice is incorrect because diabetes mellitus, while a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, is not directly associated with the symptoms described by the client. However, diabetes can exacerbate CHF if the client's blood glucose levels are not well-controlled.

C) This choice is incorrect because smoking history is a risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases, but it is not specifically linked to the symptoms reported by the client in this case.

D) This choice is incorrect because a family history of heart disease may increase the client's risk of developing CHF, but it does not directly contribute to the current symptoms the client is experiencing.

A) This choice is incorrect because ascites (abdominal swelling due to fluid accumulation) is a sign of right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure.

B) This choice is incorrect because dependent edema (swelling in the legs and ankles) is also a sign of right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure.

C) This choice is correct. Crackles in the lungs, also known as rales, are the classic hallmark of left-sided heart failure. They occur when fluid accumulates in the lungs, leading to abnormal lung sounds on auscultation.

D) This choice is incorrect because jugular vein distention is associated with right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure.

A) This choice is incorrect because restricting all physical activity is not recommended for clients with congestive heart failure. Regular, moderate exercise can be beneficial for heart health when appropriately prescribed by the healthcare provider.

B) This choice is correct. Regularly weighing themselves, ideally daily, and reporting sudden weight gain to the healthcare provider is essential for clients with congestive heart failure. Sudden weight gain may indicate fluid retention, a worsening of heart failure, or medication non-compliance.

C) This choice is incorrect because a high-sodium diet can worsen fluid retention and exacerbate congestive heart failure symptoms. The client should follow a low-sodium diet to manage fluid balance.

D) This choice is incorrect because taking prescribed medications only when symptoms worsen is not appropriate for congestive heart failure management. The client should take prescribed medications as directed by the healthcare provider, even when feeling well, to prevent symptom exacerbation and improve heart function.

A) This choice is incorrect because hypertension is not a common side effect of digoxin. Digoxin is used to treat heart failure and can help control blood pressure in some cases.

B) This choice is incorrect because hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels) is not a common side effect of digoxin. In fact, digoxin can sometimes cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) as a side effect.

C) This choice is correct. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is a common side effect of digoxin. Digoxin works by increasing the force of the heart's contractions and can slow down the heart rate. Clients taking digoxin should have their heart rate monitored regularly, and the healthcare provider should be notified if the heart rate is below the prescribed parameters.

D) This choice is incorrect because respiratory alkalosis is not a common side effect of digoxin. Digoxin does not directly affect the respiratory system.

Questions

A) This choice is incorrect because while infections and viral illnesses can contribute to heart failure in some cases, they are not the leading causes of CHF. Hypertension and coronary artery disease are more common risk factors.

B) This choice is correct. Hypertension (high blood pressure) and coronary artery disease (narrowing or blockage of the heart's blood vessels) are the leading causes of CHF. Both conditions place increased stress on the heart and can lead to heart muscle damage and failure.

C) This choice is incorrect because while excessive physical exertion and overworking the heart can contribute to heart failure, they are not the primary causes of CHF. Underlying conditions like hypertension and coronary artery disease are more significant risk factors.

D) This choice is incorrect because anemia and low red blood cell count can impact heart function, but they are not the main causes of CHF. Hypertension and coronary artery disease are more commonly associated with the development of CHF.

A) This choice is correct. Alcohol abuse can lead to dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition in which the heart becomes enlarged and weakened, contributing to congestive heart failure. Chronic alcohol consumption can cause toxic effects on the heart muscle, leading to impaired pumping function.

B) This choice is incorrect because malnutrition, while it can impact overall health, is not a direct precipitating cause of congestive heart failure. However, malnutrition can exacerbate heart failure symptoms and weaken the heart further.

C) This choice is incorrect because a sedentary lifestyle can be a risk factor for heart disease, including congestive heart failure, but it is not a direct precipitating cause of the client's condition in this scenario.

D) This choice is incorrect because occupational exposure to toxins can have health implications, but it is not directly related to the client's signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure in this case.

A) This choice is incorrect because a body mass index (BMI) of 22 kg/m² is within the normal range and is not directly associated with the development of congestive heart failure in this scenario.

B) This choice is incorrect because a blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg is within the normal range and does not indicate a direct precipitating factor for congestive heart failure in this case.

C) This choice is incorrect because a fasting blood glucose level of 90 mg/dL is within the normal range and is not directly associated with the development of congestive heart failure in this scenario.

D) This choice is correct. A serum cholesterol level of 240 mg/dL indicates high cholesterol, which is a risk factor for coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease is a leading cause of congestive heart failure and may have contributed to the client's condition.

A) This choice is incorrect because age is a non-modifiable risk factor for congestive heart failure. While age increases the risk of heart disease, including CHF, it cannot be changed or modified.

B) This choice is incorrect because family history of heart disease is a non-modifiable risk factor. While individuals with a family history of heart disease may have an increased risk of developing CHF, it is not something that can be changed or modified.

C) This choice is correct. Smoking is a modifiable risk factor for congestive heart failure. Smoking damages blood vessels, increases blood pressure, and can lead to atherosclerosis, all of which contribute to heart failure.

D) This choice is incorrect because gender is a non-modifiable risk factor for congestive heart failure. While men may have a slightly higher risk of heart failure compared to women, gender is not something that can be changed or modified.

A) This choice is incorrect because while electrolyte imbalances can have cardiovascular implications, they are not directly associated with diabetes mellitus or congestive heart failure.

B) This choice is incorrect because left-sided heart failure is not directly related to uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. However, diabetes can exacerbate heart failure if not well-controlled due to its impact on blood vessels and the heart.

C) This choice is incorrect because decreased afterload is not directly related to uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Afterload refers to the resistance the heart has to overcome to eject blood into the circulation.

D) This choice is correct. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus can lead to microvascular damage, particularly in the small blood vessels of the heart. This damage can contribute to heart muscle dysfunction and congestive heart failure. Diabetes is a significant risk factor for developing heart failure.

Questions

A) This choice is incorrect because orthopnea is a different symptom where the client experiences difficulty breathing while lying flat and finds relief by sitting upright or standing.

B) This choice is correct. Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea is characterized by sudden breathlessness that awakens the client from sleep, usually 1-2 hours after falling asleep. The client may feel the need to sit upright or dangle the legs to breathe comfortably.

C) This choice is incorrect because peripheral edema refers to swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, which is a common symptom of congestive heart failure but does not match the client's reported symptom.

D) This choice is incorrect because tachypnea is rapid breathing and is not specifically related to the client's nighttime symptom of sudden breathlessness.

A) This choice is incorrect because palpitations refer to an abnormal awareness of the heart's beating, which is not described by the client.

B) This choice is incorrect because angina pectoris is chest pain or discomfort due to inadequate blood flow to the heart muscle. The client's complaint is related to physical activity causing fatigue and weakness, not chest pain.

C) This choice is correct. Dyspnea on exertion refers to shortness of breath or difficulty breathing that occurs with physical activity or exertion. The client's symptoms of feeling fatigued and weak after mild activity suggest exertional dyspnea, which is common in congestive heart failure.

D) This choice is incorrect because peripheral cyanosis is bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to reduced blood flow, which is not described by the client.

A) This choice is incorrect because clubbing refers to the enlargement of the fingertips and nails due to chronic hypoxia, which is not related to the client's reported symptoms.

B) This choice is correct. Peripheral edema refers to swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, which is a common symptom of congestive heart failure. The client's symptoms of swollen ankles, legs, and abdomen indicate peripheral edema.

C) This choice is incorrect because pitting edema is a specific type of edema where pressure on the skin leaves an indentation or "pit." While the client's edema may indeed be pitting, the question does not provide enough information to confirm this.

D) This choice is incorrect because ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and is not specific to the client's reported symptoms of swollen ankles and legs.

A) This choice is incorrect because wheezing on auscultation is a characteristic finding in respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), not congestive heart failure.

B) This choice is incorrect because hyperactive bowel sounds are not specific to congestive heart failure and are more indicative of gastrointestinal activity.

C) This choice is incorrect because the absence of jugular vein distention is not directly related to fluid accumulation in the lungs. Jugular vein distention is associated with right-sided heart failure.

D) This choice is correct. Crackles, also known as rales, are abnormal lung sounds heard on auscultation and may indicate fluid accumulation in the lungs, a common symptom of congestive heart failure. The presence of crackles suggests pulmonary congestion due to fluid leaking into the alveoli.

A) This choice is incorrect because hemoptysis refers to coughing up blood from the respiratory tract, which is not described by the client.

B) This choice is incorrect because dyspnea refers to difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, not a dry, persistent cough.

C) This choice is incorrect because paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea is characterized by sudden breathlessness that awakens the client from sleep, not a dry cough.

D) This choice is correct. Cardiac asthma is a form of wheezing or coughing that occurs as a result of fluid accumulation in the lungs due to congestive heart failure. It is not caused by asthma but is a manifestation of heart failure impacting the respiratory system.

Questions

A) This choice is incorrect because an electrocardiogram (ECG) is a valuable diagnostic tool for assessing the heart's electrical activity and rhythm, but it is not the gold standard for diagnosing CHF. It can provide information about possible cardiac hypertrophy or rhythm disturbances associated with heart failure.

B) This choice is incorrect because a chest X-ray is helpful in evaluating heart size and the presence of pulmonary congestion, but it is not the gold standard for diagnosing CHF.

C) This choice is correct. An echocardiogram is the gold standard for diagnosing CHF. It uses ultrasound waves to assess the heart's structure and function, including ejection fraction and valve function, providing critical information to confirm the diagnosis of heart failure.

D) This choice is incorrect because a brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level is a blood test that can aid in the diagnosis of CHF. Elevated BNP levels indicate heart strain, but it is not the gold standard for diagnosing CHF.

A) This choice is incorrect because a narrowed mediastinum is not a characteristic finding in congestive heart failure. The mediastinum is the central region of the chest, and its width is not specifically related to CHF.

B) This choice is incorrect because hyperinflated lungs are a characteristic finding in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), not congestive heart failure.

C) This choice is correct. Cardiomegaly, an enlarged heart, is a common finding in congestive heart failure. The heart may appear enlarged on a chest X-ray due to fluid accumulation and strain on the heart muscle.

D) This choice is incorrect because a normal cardiac silhouette on a chest X-ray would not be indicative of congestive heart failure. The presence of cardiomegaly is more suggestive of heart failure.

A) This choice is incorrect because a complete blood count (CBC) is a general blood test that measures different components of the blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It is not specifically used to measure heart strain or diagnose CHF.

B) This choice is incorrect because a basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a blood test that measures electrolytes, kidney function, and glucose levels. It is not specific to diagnosing CHF.

C) This choice is correct. A brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level is a blood test specifically used to measure heart strain. Elevated BNP levels can indicate heart failure, making it a valuable diagnostic tool in assessing suspected CHF.

D) This choice is incorrect because a C-reactive protein (CRP) level is a marker of inflammation and is not specific to diagnosing CHF.

A) This choice is incorrect because a high-pitched, scratchy sound heard during inhalation is called a pleural friction rub and is associated with pleuritis or inflammation of the pleura, not congestive heart failure.

B) This choice is correct. An S3 heart sound is an extra heart sound heard immediately after S1 and S2, often described as a "ventricular gallop." It is associated with congestive heart failure and indicates increased fluid volume and strain on the ventricles.

C) This choice is incorrect because a prolonged, whooshing sound heard during systole is a heart murmur, which can be caused by various conditions, but it is not specific to the presence of an S3 sound.

D) This choice is incorrect because an irregular heart rhythm with varying intensity is characteristic of cardiac arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats and is not specific to the presence of an S3 sound.

A) This choice is incorrect because serum electrolyte levels are not directly measured during an echocardiogram. They are typically assessed through a blood test and are not specific to evaluating heart function using ultrasound.

B) This choice is incorrect because blood pressure readings are not directly measured during an echocardiogram. Blood pressure is typically assessed using a sphygmomanometer and is not specific to evaluating heart function using ultrasound.

C) This choice is incorrect because oxygen saturation levels are not directly measured during an echocardiogram. Oxygen saturation is typically assessed using a pulse oximeter and is not specific to evaluating heart function using ultrasound.

D) This choice is correct. Ejection fraction (EF) is a parameter measured during an echocardiogram to assess the client's heart function. It represents the percentage of blood pumped out of the heart's left ventricle with each heartbeat and is an essential indicator of heart muscle efficiency and potential heart failure.

Questions

A) This choice is incorrect because ACE inhibitors should not be taken with grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can interfere with the metabolism of the medication, leading to increased levels and potential side effects.

B) This choice is incorrect because the client should not adjust the dose of the ACE inhibitor without consulting their healthcare provider. Blood pressure should be monitored, but any dosage adjustments should be made by the healthcare provider based on the client's response to the medication.

C) This choice is correct. ACE inhibitors can cause a side effect of a persistent dry cough, and in some cases, difficulty breathing. The client should promptly report these symptoms to their healthcare provider for evaluation and possible adjustment of the medication regimen.

D) This choice is incorrect because while ACE inhibitors can increase potassium levels, avoiding foods high in potassium is not necessary unless specifically directed by the healthcare provider. The client should follow a balanced diet and inform the healthcare provider of any changes in their dietary habits.

A) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics can lead to increased sodium excretion, potentially causing hypernatremia (high sodium levels) rather than hyponatremia (low sodium levels).

B) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics do not typically cause hypocalcemia (low calcium levels). They primarily affect sodium, potassium, and water excretion.

C) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics are more likely to cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) rather than hyperkalemia (high potassium levels). Loop diuretics can increase potassium excretion, leading to a potential deficiency.

D) This choice is correct. Loop diuretics are potent potassium-wasting diuretics, meaning they increase potassium excretion in the urine, potentially causing hypokalemia. The nurse should closely monitor the client's potassium levels and provide potassium supplementation if necessary.

A) This choice is correct. Beta-blockers should not be abruptly discontinued, as sudden discontinuation can lead to rebound effects and worsen the client's condition. Gradual tapering of the medication is necessary under the guidance of the healthcare provider.

B) This choice is incorrect because taking a beta-blocker with a high-fat meal is not necessary. Beta-blockers can be taken with or without food, but consistent administration is essential for optimal therapeutic effects.

C) This choice is incorrect because limiting fluid intake is not specific to the administration of beta-blockers. Fluid intake may need to be adjusted based on the client's overall fluid balance and congestive heart failure status, but it is not a direct instruction related to the medication.

D) This choice is incorrect because the timing of beta-blocker administration varies depending on the specific beta-blocker prescribed and the client's individual response. Some beta-blockers may be taken in the morning, while others may be taken in the evening. The client should follow the prescribed schedule given by the healthcare provider.

A) This choice is incorrect because bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not a common adverse effect of furosemide, a loop diuretic.

B) This choice is incorrect because hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels) is not a common adverse effect of furosemide. In fact, furosemide can sometimes cause transient hypoglycemia.

C) This choice is correct. Hypotension (low blood pressure) is a potential adverse effect of furosemide due to its diuretic action. Furosemide causes the excretion of excess fluid, leading to a decrease in blood volume, which can result in hypotension.

D) This choice is incorrect because a dry, nonproductive cough is associated with ACE inhibitors, not furosemide.

A) This choice is incorrect because while digoxin can impact liver function, it is not the primary parameter to be monitored. Liver function tests may be performed periodically to assess liver health during digoxin therapy.

B) This choice is incorrect because serum sodium levels are not directly impacted by digoxin. However, electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia, can potentiate digoxin toxicity, so potassium levels should be monitored.

C) This choice is correct. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that can impact renal function. Monitoring urine output is essential to assess kidney function and the client's response to the medication.

D) This choice is incorrect because blood glucose levels are not specifically impacted by digoxin. However, hypokalemia resulting from digoxin therapy can cause alterations in glucose metabolism, so blood glucose levels should be monitored in clients taking digoxin.

Questions

A) This choice is correct. ACE inhibitors are used to lower blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart. The client should monitor their blood pressure regularly and report any significant changes to their healthcare provider. Adjustments to the medication dosage should only be made under the guidance of the healthcare provider.

B) This choice is incorrect because while ACE inhibitors can increase potassium levels, avoiding foods high in potassium is not necessary unless specifically directed by the healthcare provider. The client should follow a balanced diet and inform the healthcare provider of any changes in their dietary habits.

C) This choice is incorrect because ACE inhibitors should not be taken with grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can interfere with the metabolism of the medication, leading to increased levels and potential side effects.

D) This choice is incorrect because limiting fluid intake is not specific to the administration of ACE inhibitors. Fluid intake may need to be adjusted based on the client's overall fluid balance and congestive heart failure status, but it is not a direct instruction related to the medication.

A) This choice is incorrect because hypokalemia (low potassium levels) is more commonly associated with loop diuretics rather than beta-blockers.

B) This choice is incorrect because while hypotension (low blood pressure) can be a potential adverse effect of beta-blockers, it is not the primary adverse effect to be monitored for.

C) This choice is correct. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is a common adverse effect of beta-blockers, which work by slowing the heart rate and reducing the force of the heart's contractions. The nurse should monitor the client's heart rate and report any significant changes or symptoms of bradycardia to the healthcare provider.

D) This choice is incorrect because hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels) is not a common adverse effect of beta-blockers. In fact, beta-blockers can sometimes cause transient hypoglycemia.

A) This choice is incorrect because hypernatremia (high sodium levels) is not a common adverse effect of loop diuretics. Loop diuretics primarily impact sodium and water excretion.

B) This choice is incorrect because hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) is not typically associated with loop diuretics. In fact, loop diuretics can lead to increased potassium excretion, potentially causing hypokalemia.

C) This choice is incorrect because hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) is not a common adverse effect of loop diuretics. Loop diuretics primarily affect sodium, potassium, and water excretion.

D) This choice is correct. Loop diuretics are potent potassium-wasting diuretics, meaning they increase potassium excretion in the urine, potentially causing hypokalemia. The nurse should closely monitor the client's potassium levels and provide potassium supplementation if necessary.

A) This choice is incorrect because serum sodium levels are not directly impacted by digoxin. However, electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia, can potentiate digoxin toxicity, so potassium levels should be monitored.

B) This choice is incorrect because while digoxin can impact liver function, it is not the primary parameter to be monitored. Liver function tests may be performed periodically to assess liver health during digoxin therapy.

C) This choice is correct. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that can impact renal function. Monitoring urine output is essential to assess kidney function and the client's response to the medication.

D) This choice is incorrect because blood glucose levels are not specifically impacted by digoxin. However, hypokalemia resulting from digoxin therapy can cause alterations in glucose metabolism, so blood glucose levels should be monitored in clients taking digoxin.

A) This choice is incorrect because limiting fluid intake is not specific to the administration of spironolactone. Fluid intake may need to be adjusted based on the client's overall fluid balance and congestive heart failure status, but it is not a direct instruction related to the medication.

B) This choice is correct. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can cause hyperkalemia (high potassium levels). The client should avoid foods high in potassium to help prevent potassium overload and potential adverse effects.

C) This choice is incorrect because the timing of spironolactone administration may vary depending on the client's individual response and the presence of other medications. The client should follow the prescribed schedule given by the healthcare provider.

D) This choice is incorrect because monitoring blood pressure daily and adjusting the dose accordingly is not specific to the administration of spironolactone. While blood pressure may need to be monitored regularly, dosage adjustments should only be made under the guidance of the healthcare provider.

Questions

A) This choice is incorrect because consuming a diet high in sodium would exacerbate fluid retention in congestive heart failure. Clients with CHF should follow a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid overload and manage edema.

B) This choice is incorrect because limiting fluid intake to 1 liter per day is too restrictive and may lead to dehydration. Fluid restriction is essential for some clients with CHF, but the specific limit should be determined by the healthcare provider based on the client's individual needs.

C) This choice is incorrect because while potassium intake may need to be monitored, restricting potassium-rich foods is not a universal instruction for clients with CHF. It depends on the client's overall potassium levels and specific medication regimen.

D) This choice is correct. Following a low-sodium diet is essential for clients with congestive heart failure to reduce fluid retention and manage symptoms of fluid overload.

A) This choice is incorrect because taking digoxin with a high-fat meal is not necessary. Digoxin can be taken with or without food, but consistent administration is essential for optimal therapeutic effects.

B) This choice is incorrect because skipping a dose of digoxin can lead to suboptimal medication levels and reduced effectiveness. If the client experiences nausea or vomiting, they should contact their healthcare provider for guidance.

C) This choice is correct. Digoxin is used to treat congestive heart failure and other cardiac conditions. It is crucial for clients to monitor their blood pressure regularly, especially if their healthcare provider has instructed them to adjust the medication dose based on their blood pressure readings.

D) This choice is incorrect because while avoiding certain over-the-counter medications is essential while on digoxin due to potential drug interactions, it is not the primary instruction for the client. The client should discuss any new medications, including over-the-counter drugs, with their healthcare provider to ensure they are safe to take with digoxin.

A) This choice is incorrect because bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not a common adverse effect of furosemide, a loop diuretic.

B) This choice is correct. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to increased potassium excretion in the urine, potentially causing hypokalemia (low potassium levels). The nurse should closely monitor the client's potassium levels and provide potassium supplementation if necessary.

C) This choice is incorrect because hypertension (high blood pressure) is not typically associated with loop diuretics like furosemide. In fact, furosemide is used to treat hypertension and congestive heart failure by promoting the excretion of excess fluid and reducing blood pressure.

D) This choice is incorrect because hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels) is not a common adverse effect of furosemide. In fact, furosemide can sometimes cause transient hypoglycemia.

A) This choice is incorrect because limiting fluid intake to 1 liter per day is too restrictive and may lead to dehydration. Fluid restriction is essential for some clients with CHF, but the specific limit should be determined by the healthcare provider based on the client's individual needs.

B) This choice is incorrect because fluid restriction should not be limited to the evening only. Clients with CHF should monitor their fluid intake throughout the day to prevent fluid overload.

C) This choice is incorrect because drinking fluids primarily with meals may not be sufficient for managing fluid intake. Fluid intake should be balanced throughout the day to avoid excessive fluid retention.

D) This choice is correct. Monitoring daily weights is an essential strategy for clients with congestive heart failure to manage fluid balance. Sudden weight gain can indicate fluid retention, a common symptom of CHF. Clients should be instructed to report any significant weight changes to their healthcare provider promptly.

A) This choice is incorrect because taking the nitrate medication with food is not necessary. Nitrate medications are usually taken sublingually or by mouth and are not associated with significant stomach upset.

B) This choice is correct. Nitrate medications, such as nitroglycerin, can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure when used concurrently with erectile dysfunction medications, specifically phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors) like sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis). Clients should be warned against using these medications together to prevent hypotension and potential cardiovascular complications.

C) This choice is incorrect because grapefruit juice is not typically associated with nitrate medications. Grapefruit juice can interact with certain medications, but it is not a known interaction with nitrates.

D) This choice is incorrect because increasing the nitrate dose without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous. Clients should be instructed to take nitrate medications as prescribed and seek immediate medical attention if chest pain is not relieved within a specific timeframe, as directed by their healthcare provider.

Questions