Question

An outpatient who has chronic heart failure returns to the clinic after 2 weeks of therapy with

metoprolol (Toprol XL). Which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report
to the health care provider?

a. 2+ bilateral pedal edema
b. Heart rate of 56 beats/min
c. Complaints of increased fatigue
d. Blood pressure (BP) of 88/42 mm Hg

Answer 1

The assessment finding that is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider is a blood pressure (BP) of 88/42 mm Hg.

Step-by-step explanation:

The assessment finding that is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider in this case is a blood pressure (BP) of 88/42 mm Hg. In a patient with chronic heart failure, a low blood pressure can be indicative of worsening heart function. It may suggest that the heart is not pumping effectively, leading to inadequate blood flow to the organs and tissues. The nurse should report this finding promptly so that appropriate interventions can be initiated.