Question

The nurse is assessing the client diagnosed with CHF. Which laboratory data would indicate that the client is in severe CHF?

a. An elevated B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP).
b. An elevated creatinine kinase (CK-MB).
c. A positive D-dimer.
d. A positive ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) scan.

Answer 1

An elevated B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) indicates that the client is in severe CHF.

Step-by-step explanation:

An elevated B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) would indicate that the client is in severe CHF. BNP is a hormone produced by the ventricles of the heart in response to increased pressure and stretch. In CHF, the ventricles are not able to pump blood effectively, causing an increase in pressure and stretch, which leads to elevated levels of BNP. Therefore, an elevated BNP level is indicative of severe CHF.