Question

The clinic nurse is caring for a 76-year-old client who has heart failure and is experiencing sudden weight gain and orthopnea. Which question would be the most beneficial for the nurse to ask at this time?

a) "Have you been taking your medications as prescribed?"
b) "Have you recently started a new exercise routine?"
c) "Have you been following a low-sodium diet?"
d) "Have you experienced any recent stressful events?"

Answer 1

The nurse should ask about medication adherence, as this directly addresses a common cause of decompensation in heart failure, which could be indicated by the patient's symptoms of orthopnea and sudden weight gain.

Step-by-step explanation:

The clinic nurse is caring for a 76-year-old client who has heart failure and is experiencing sudden weight gain and orthopnea. To assess factors contributing to these symptoms, the most beneficial question for the nurse to ask at this time would be "Have you been taking your medications as prescribed?" This question is aimed at understanding the patient's adherence to the treatment regimen, which is essential in managing heart failure.

Orthopnea and sudden weight gain can be indicative of exacerbating heart failure, potentially due to fluid overload. It is critical to ensure that the patient takes prescribed diuretics and other heart failure medications consistently to manage fluid retention and prevent further complications. Inquiring about medications compliance directly addresses a potential and common cause of decompensation in heart failure.