Final answer:
CABG surgery is intended to improve blood flow to the heart muscle by bypassing blocked arteries, enhancing quality of life and reducing symptoms, not necessarily prolonging life. It's not recommended for all patients, as lifestyle changes and medication can be alternative treatments. The correct option is A) "CABG surgery is primarily for cosmetic purposes."
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should respond to the client's spouse by explaining that CABG surgery can improve blood flow to the heart muscle. This surgery involves grafting a vessel from another part of the body to bypass the blocked coronary artery, thereby restoring blood flow to the heart and alleviating symptoms such as chest pain. The primary goal of CABG is not to increase lifespan, but to enhance the quality of life by reducing symptoms and potentially preventing severe complications like heart attacks.
However, it should be noted that CABG is not advised for patients with stable cardiac capacity, as it may lead to a loss of mental acuity, and lifestyle changes coupled with medication may be equally effective for some patients. Lifestyle changes along with medical treatment are crucial for managing underlying atherosclerosis, which greatly increases the risk of heart-related conditions.