Question

A client with a forceful, pounding heartbeat is diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse. Which client statement indicates to the nurse a need for additional teaching?

a) "I should increase my fluid intake."
b) "I can still drink coffee and tea."
c) "I should eat foods rich in protein."
d) "I'll enroll in an aerobic exercise program."

Answer 1

The client statement that indicates a need for additional teaching is "I should eat foods rich in protein."

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is c) "I should eat foods rich in protein." Mitral valve prolapse is a condition in which the valve between the left atrium and left ventricle doesn't close properly. This can cause blood to leak back into the left atrium. While increasing fluid intake, drinking coffee and tea, and enrolling in an aerobic exercise program are generally fine, consuming foods rich in protein may actually exacerbate the symptoms of mitral valve prolapse. Eating large amounts of protein can increase the workload on the heart, which can worsen symptoms like a forceful, pounding heartbeat.