Question

A patient with heart failure has a decreasing cardiac output. The nurse will expect compensatory mechanisms to be activated in order to:

1. Decrease the heart rate
2. Maintain perfusion to vital organs
3. Cause arteriolar vasodilation in nonessential vascular beds
4. Inhibit the release of aldosterone

Answer 1

In heart failure with decreased cardiac output, compensatory mechanisms aim to maintain perfusion to vital organs by increasing the heart rate and force of contractions, initiating vasoconstriction, and promoting fluid retention through aldosterone release.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient with heart failure and decreasing cardiac output will trigger compensatory mechanisms to maintain perfusion to vital organs. This includes activation of neural and endocrine responses to stabilize blood pressure and ensure blood supply to essential tissues. Baroreceptors will detect the decrease in blood pressure and stimulate the cardiovascular centers to initiate a sympathetic response, which includes increasing heart rate, enhancing the force of heart contractions, and prompting vasoconstriction.

These responses will result in increased cardiac output and redirection of blood flow to vital organs. Additionally, the release of epinephrine and norepinephrine, along with the activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, will lead to vasoconstriction and increased blood volume. The release of aldosterone will promote sodium and water reabsorption in the kidneys, which in turn helps to maintain blood volume and pressure. Therefore, the correct response to the question is option 2: Maintain perfusion to vital organs.