Question

Which assessment finding(s) indicate to the nurse that a patient with infective endocarditis has decreased cardiac output?

a. Fever, chills, and diaphoresis
b. Urine production of 25 mL/hr
c. Increase in heart rate of 15 beats/min with walking
d. Petechiae on the inside of the mouth and conjunctiva

Answer 1

Urine production of 25 mL/hr is the indication of decreased cardiac output in a patient with infective endocarditis, as it shows reduced blood flow to the kidneys.

The correct answer is option b. Urine production of 25 mL/hr.

Step-by-step explanation:

The assessment finding that indicates to the nurse that a patient with infective endocarditis has decreased cardiac output is urine production of 25 mL/hr. Decreased urinary output is a direct measure of decreased cardiac output, as the kidneys receive less blood flow, resulting in a reduced amount of urine being produced.

Additionally, symptoms such as fatigue, alteration in mental status, and cold extremities can also suggest decreased cardiac output. Factors like fever, chills, diaphoresis, an increase in heart rate with activity, and petechiae inside the mouth and conjunctiva are indicative of infective endocarditis but are not specific to decreased cardiac output.

The correct answer is option b. Urine production of 25 mL/hr.