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Cardiovascular System Exam Questions Pdf
1. Which valve prevents backflow of blood into the left ventricle from the aorta?
- A. Aortic valve
- B. Mitral valve
- C. Tricuspid valve
- D. Pulmonary valve
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is Aortic valve. The aortic valve is positioned between the left ventricle and the aorta. It prevents blood from flowing back into the left ventricle after it has been pumped into the aorta. The mitral valve (Choice B) is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle, the tricuspid valve (Choice C) is between the right atrium and right ventricle, and the pulmonary valve (Choice D) is situated between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. Therefore, they are not responsible for preventing backflow from the aorta into the left ventricle.
2. This is the inflammation of the heart's inner lining, usually caused by an infection.
- A. Endocarditis
- B. Myocarditis
- C. Pericarditis
- D. Valvulitis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Endocarditis is the inflammation of the inner lining of the heart's chambers and valves, usually caused by a bacterial infection. Myocarditis is the inflammation of the heart muscle, Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium (the outer lining of the heart), and Valvulitis is the inflammation of the heart valves. Therefore, in this case, the correct answer is Endocarditis as it specifically refers to the inflammation of the heart's inner lining.
3. The client is on spironolactone (Aldactone). What is the most important dietary instruction?
- A. Avoid foods high in potassium.
- B. Increase intake of foods high in potassium.
- C. Avoid foods high in sodium.
- D. Increase intake of foods high in sodium.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to avoid foods high in potassium. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it helps the body retain potassium and can lead to hyperkalemia if too much potassium is consumed. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because increasing intake of potassium-rich foods can worsen hyperkalemia, while avoiding foods high in sodium is not the primary concern when taking spironolactone.
4. Which condition is characterized by the sudden onset of shortness of breath, often occurring at night and associated with heart failure?
- A. Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
- B. Sleep apnea
- C. Orthopnea
- D. Dyspnea
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea is the correct answer. It is characterized by the sudden onset of shortness of breath during sleep, often associated with heart failure. Choice B, Sleep apnea, involves pauses in breathing during sleep but is not specifically associated with heart failure. Choice C, Orthopnea, is difficulty breathing that occurs when lying down and is relieved by sitting up, not necessarily associated with heart failure. Choice D, Dyspnea, is a general term for difficulty breathing and does not specifically describe the sudden onset at night associated with heart failure as seen in paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea.
5. A client on an ACE inhibitor reports a persistent cough. What is the nurse’s best response?
- A. Reassure the client that the cough is a common side effect and is usually not serious.
- B. Instruct the client to report the cough to the healthcare provider as it may require discontinuation of the medication.
- C. Advise the client to use a humidifier at night to relieve the cough.
- D. Suggest the client take an over-the-counter cough suppressant.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. A persistent cough in a client on an ACE inhibitor may indicate a serious side effect that requires discontinuation of the medication. Instructing the client to report the cough to the healthcare provider is essential for proper evaluation and management. Choice A is incorrect because simply reassuring the client may delay necessary action. Choice C is incorrect as using a humidifier may not address the underlying cause of the cough. Choice D is incorrect because taking a cough suppressant without healthcare provider guidance may mask symptoms without addressing the cause.
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