Question

The nurse is teaching a patient with heart failure about signs and symptoms that suggest a return or worsening of heart failure. What does the nurse include in the teaching? (Select all that apply.)

a. Rapid weight loss of 3 lbs. in a week
b. Increase in exercise tolerance lasting 2 to 3 days
c. Cold symptoms (cough) lasting more than 3 to 5 days
d. Excessive awakening at night to urinate
e. Development of dyspnea or angina at rest or worsening angina
f. Increased swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands

Answer 1

The nurse should include the development of dyspnea or angina at rest or worsening angina, increased swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands, and rapid weight gain of 3 lbs. in a week when teaching a patient with heart failure about signs and symptoms that suggest a return or worsening of the condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

When teaching a patient with heart failure about signs and symptoms that suggest a return or worsening of the condition, the nurse should include the following:

• Development of dyspnea or angina at rest or worsening angina: This indicates that the heart is not pumping effectively and is struggling to meet the body's oxygen demands.
• Increased swelling in the feet, ankles, or hands: This can be a result of fluid retention, a common symptom of heart failure.
• Rapid weight gain of 3 lbs. in a week: This indicates fluid retention and worsening heart failure.

It's important for the patient to be aware of these signs and symptoms so that they can seek medical attention promptly when necessary.