Smartest Pulmonologist Quiz Questions

The correct answer is blood clot. Pulmonary thromboembolism refers to the obstruction of the pulmonary artery or its branches by a blood clot that has traveled from elsewhere in the body, typically the legs. In this case, the embolus causing the pulmonary thromboembolism is composed of a blood clot.

The obstruction to pulmonary blood flow caused by the large, nonlethal pulmonary embolus leads to an increase in pressure in the pulmonary arteries, resulting in pulmonary hypertension. This occurs because the embolus blocks blood flow to a portion of the lungs, causing the unaffected areas to compensate by increasing their resistance to blood flow. This increased resistance leads to elevated pressure in the pulmonary arteries, which is known as pulmonary hypertension.

After a cerebrovascular accident causing dysphagia, the patient is at risk for aspiration of gastric contents, which can lead to pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia occurs when food, liquid, or stomach acid is inhaled into the lungs, causing an infection. This is a common complication in patients with dysphagia, as the weakened swallowing muscles make it difficult to prevent food or liquid from entering the airway. Therefore, pneumonia is the most likely complication in this case.

The most likely mechanism of the patient's shock is vasodilation caused by a decrease in sympathetic stimulation. A complete spinal cord transection at the C-5 level disrupts the sympathetic outflow from the spinal cord, leading to loss of sympathetic tone. This loss of sympathetic stimulation causes vasodilation, resulting in decreased systemic vascular resistance and hypotension. The bradycardia and hyperventilation seen in the patient are compensatory responses to maintain perfusion. Hypovolemia caused by blood loss or evaporative fluid losses are less likely in this case, as there is no mention of trauma or significant fluid loss. Gram-negative bacterial infection causing vasodilation is also less likely given the absence of clinical indicators of infection.

Patients with septic shock are most prone to developing multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Septic shock is a severe condition caused by a systemic infection that leads to widespread inflammation and organ dysfunction. It can affect multiple organs such as the lungs, liver, kidneys, and heart. The infection triggers an exaggerated immune response, causing damage to the organs. This can ultimately result in MODS, where multiple organs fail to function properly.

Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of myocardial ischemia. Atherosclerosis refers to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to narrowing and blockage of blood flow. This can result in reduced blood supply to the heart muscle, causing myocardial ischemia. Other causes such as idiopathic vasospasm, arterial emboli from heart valve, and venous emboli are less common in comparison.

In this scenario, the patient has been critically ill for a prolonged period, resulting in multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). This has led to a severe oxygen supply and demand imbalance. The correct answer states that the reserve of oxygen in the body has been exhausted, and the amount of oxygen consumed by cells now depends on the ability of the circulation system to deliver oxygen. This means that the body is unable to meet the oxygen demands of the cells, leading to a critical situation where the available oxygen is not sufficient to meet the body's needs.

The most likely diagnosis documented on the chart is empyema. Empyema refers to the accumulation of pus in the pleural space, which is the space between the lungs and the chest wall. The patient's symptoms of cyanosis, tachycardia, fever, and cough, along with the chest x-ray findings of pus in the pleural space, are consistent with empyema. Emphysema is a lung condition characterized by the destruction of the lung tissue and is not associated with pus accumulation. Pleurisy refers to inflammation of the pleura, but it does not necessarily involve pus. Chyle is a milky fluid that can accumulate in the pleural space, but it is not typically associated with pneumonia.

Empyema is a condition characterized by the accumulation of pus in the pleural cavity, usually as a result of a bacterial infection. Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of empyema, especially in adults. This bacterium is known for its ability to cause various types of infections, including skin and soft tissue infections, pneumonia, and bloodstream infections. Therefore, considering the diagnosis of empyema, Staphylococcus aureus is the most likely organism responsible for the infection in this case.

The patient's presentation of dyspnea, rapid, shallow breathing, inspiratory crackles, decreased lung compliance, and hypoxemia, along with the findings of acute lung inflammation and diffuse alveolocapillary injury on tests, are consistent with the diagnosis of Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS is a severe form of respiratory failure that occurs due to lung injury, leading to inflammation and damage to the alveoli and capillaries in the lungs. It is characterized by the rapid onset of respiratory symptoms and severe hypoxemia. Sarcoidosis, postoperative respiratory failure, and malignant respiratory failure do not typically present with the same clinical features as ARDS.

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Asthma is classified based on clinical severity because the severity of symptoms and the frequency of asthma attacks can vary from person to person. By classifying asthma based on clinical severity, healthcare professionals can determine the appropriate treatment plan and medications for each individual. This classification helps in managing and controlling asthma symptoms effectively and reducing the risk of complications.

SVCS is a condition characterized by the blockage or obstruction (occlusion) of the superior vena cava (SVC). This obstruction leads to the distention or swelling of the upper extremities and head due to the impaired blood flow. Inflammation, sclerosis, and distention are not the primary causes of SVCS.

Status asthmaticus is the most likely diagnosis for a 10-year-old male presenting with prolonged bronchospasm and severe hypoxemia. Status asthmaticus is a severe and life-threatening form of asthma that does not respond to standard treatment. It is characterized by persistent bronchospasm, airway inflammation, and impaired gas exchange. This condition requires immediate medical attention and aggressive treatment to prevent respiratory failure and other complications.

In pulmonary edema, there is an accumulation of fluid in the lungs, leading to difficulty in breathing. The presence of pink, frothy sputum is a characteristic finding in pulmonary edema. This occurs due to the leakage of fluid from the capillaries into the alveoli, causing the sputum to be tinged with blood and have a frothy appearance. Thick mucus secretions, hypocapnia (low levels of carbon dioxide in the blood), and wheezing are not typically associated with pulmonary edema.

The hypotensive state seen in septic shock can lead to gut lining disruption and the translocation of bacteria into the bloodstream. This occurs because the low blood pressure reduces blood flow to the intestines, causing damage to the gut lining. As a result, bacteria from the intestines can enter the bloodstream, leading to the spread of infection throughout the body.

The nurse will check the brain natriuretic (BNP) level to help diagnose heart failure and provide insight into its severity. BNP is a hormone released by the heart in response to increased pressure and stretching of the heart muscle. Elevated levels of BNP indicate heart failure and can also provide information about the severity of the condition. Therefore, checking the BNP level is an important lab test in diagnosing and assessing the severity of heart failure.

The most likely risk factor associated with the diagnosis of primary hypertension in this 30-year-old Caucasian female is genes. This is indicated by the fact that her father also has hypertension, suggesting a familial or genetic predisposition to the condition. While factors such as race, diet, and age can also contribute to hypertension, the presence of a family history of the disease strongly suggests a genetic component.

The nurse should be most concerned about tamponade in this case. Tamponade refers to the compression of the heart due to the accumulation of fluid or blood in the pericardial space. The symptoms mentioned in the question, such as edema, hepatomegaly, and muffled heart sounds, are consistent with tamponade. This condition can be life-threatening as it can lead to decreased cardiac output and hemodynamic instability. Prompt medical intervention is necessary to relieve the compression on the heart and restore normal cardiac function.

The given clinical presentation of difficulty swallowing and shortness of breath suggests a possible aneurysm in the thoracic aorta. The thoracic aorta is responsible for supplying blood to the upper body, including the esophagus and lungs. An aneurysm in this region can compress these structures, leading to the reported symptoms. A CT scan is commonly used to diagnose aortic aneurysms as it provides detailed imaging of the aorta and can confirm the presence of an aneurysm.

The correct answer is "Antigens that bind to the valvular lining, triggering an autoimmune response." Rheumatic heart disease is caused by a previous streptococcal infection, where antigens from the bacteria bind to the valvular lining. This triggers an autoimmune response, leading to inflammation and damage to the heart valves. This immune response is not directly caused by blood-borne organisms adhering to the valvular surface, high fevers damaging collagen in valve leaflets, or rheumatoid factor stimulating valvular degeneration.

Untreated hypertension can lead to increased workload on the heart, causing the myocardium (heart muscle) to thicken and enlarge (hypertrophy) in order to compensate for the increased pressure. This can eventually lead to ventricular remodeling, where the shape and size of the ventricles change. This remodeling can negatively affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively, leading to left heart failure.

Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND) is a condition characterized by sudden episodes of shortness of breath during sleep. Left ventricular failure, also known as congestive heart failure, is a common cause of PND. In this condition, the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs. This fluid buildup can cause sudden episodes of breathlessness, especially when lying down at night. Therefore, the nurse would assess the patient with left ventricular failure for symptoms of PND. Pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, and hypotension are not typically associated with PND.

Autopsy of a 55-year-old male who died of a myocardial infarction would most likely reveal platelet aggregation within the atherosclerotic coronary artery. Platelet aggregation is a key event in the formation of a blood clot, which can lead to the obstruction of blood flow in the coronary artery. This obstruction can cause a myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack. Atherosclerosis refers to the buildup of plaque within the arteries, and when this plaque ruptures, it can trigger platelet aggregation and the formation of a clot. Therefore, the presence of platelet aggregation within the atherosclerotic coronary artery is a common finding in cases of myocardial infarction.

Fibrosis and calcification of the pericardial layers can lead to constrictive pericarditis, a condition where the pericardium becomes thickened and rigid. This restricts the normal filling and expansion of the heart, reducing cardiac output. As a result, blood pressure may decrease as the heart is unable to pump an adequate amount of blood to meet the body's needs. Pericardial effusions, cardiomyopathy, and hemorrhage in the pericardial cavity are not directly associated with decreased cardiac output in constrictive pericarditis.

The nurse remembers the principle of stenosis while planning care. Stenosis refers to a condition where the valve opening is constricted and narrowed because the valve leaflets or cusps fail to open completely. This can lead to decreased blood flow through the valve, causing symptoms and complications.

Mitral valve prolapse is the most common cardiac valve disease in the United States, particularly affecting young women. This condition occurs when the mitral valve in the heart does not close properly, causing blood to leak back into the left atrium. It is often asymptomatic, but can lead to symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations, and shortness of breath. Risk factors for mitral valve prolapse include genetic predisposition and certain connective tissue disorders. Treatment may not be necessary for mild cases, but severe cases may require medication or surgery to repair or replace the valve.

Ischemia refers to a lack of blood flow and oxygen to the myocardium (heart muscle) due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. In coronary artery disease, the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart muscle. This can result in ischemia, which can cause chest pain (angina) or lead to a heart attack if the blood flow is completely blocked. Therefore, in a patient diagnosed with coronary artery disease, the nurse would assess for signs and symptoms of myocardial ischemia.

Significant edema to both lower legs and feet is specifically related to right heart failure. Right heart failure can lead to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities due to impaired blood flow and increased pressure in the right side of the heart. This can cause fluid to leak out of the blood vessels and accumulate in the tissues, leading to edema. Hypertension, decreased urine output, and dyspnea upon exertion can be seen in various types of heart failure, but significant edema to both lower legs and feet is more specific to right heart failure.

The increased anterior-posterior chest diameter in a patient with emphysema is due to air trapping. Emphysema is a condition characterized by the destruction of the alveoli in the lungs, leading to decreased elasticity and increased air trapping. This causes the lungs to become hyperinflated, resulting in an increased chest diameter, particularly in the anterior-posterior direction. Decreased inspiratory reserve volumes and increased flow rates are not directly related to the increased chest diameter in emphysema. Alveolar destruction is a characteristic feature of emphysema, but it does not directly cause the increased chest diameter.

In a patient with a massive pulmonary embolism (PE), the nurse will monitor for complications such as shock and death. A massive PE can obstruct blood flow to the lungs, leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure and inadequate oxygenation of tissues, resulting in shock. If not promptly treated, the lack of oxygen can cause severe damage to vital organs and potentially lead to death. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to closely monitor the patient's vital signs and intervene promptly if any signs of shock or deterioration occur.

Neurogenic shock occurs when there is a disruption in the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for regulating the body's response to stress and maintaining blood pressure. This can be caused by factors such as spinal cord injury, brain injury, or certain medications. When the sympathetic nervous system is inhibited, there is a decrease in vascular tone and peripheral resistance, leading to low blood pressure and inadequate tissue perfusion. Therefore, a patient is prone to neurogenic shock if their sympathetic nervous system is affected.

Cigarette smoke should be realized as having the greatest impact on the development of the patient's lung cancer. The patient had a 30-year history of smoking, which is a significant risk factor for lung cancer. While exposure to air pollution, asbestos, and radiation may also contribute to the development of lung cancer, the long-term smoking history is the most significant factor in this case.

When a person with a peanut allergy consumes peanuts, it can trigger an allergic reaction known as anaphylactic shock. This is a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction. The assessment findings that the nurse will look for in this situation include bronchoconstriction (narrowing of the airways leading to difficulty breathing), hives or edema (swelling and itching of the skin), and hypotension (low blood pressure). These symptoms are commonly seen in anaphylactic shock and require immediate medical intervention.

Bronchiolitis obliterans is the most likely diagnosis for the patient with airway occlusion secondary to fibrosis following lung transplantation. Bronchiolitis obliterans is a condition characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the small airways, leading to their narrowing or complete obstruction. This can result in airway occlusion and subsequent respiratory symptoms. Other options such as compression atelectasis, bronchiectasis, and bronchiolitis are less likely to cause airway occlusion secondary to fibrosis in this scenario.

Primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, is the most common form of high blood pressure. It has no identifiable cause and is typically treated with lifestyle modifications and medications. Diuretics are commonly prescribed as the first-line treatment for primary hypertension. They work by increasing the excretion of sodium and water from the body, which helps to lower blood pressure. Therefore, in this case, the nurse would anticipate administering a diuretic to the patient as part of their treatment plan.

During shock states, the body's ability to take up and utilize glucose is impaired. This is because shock disrupts the normal functioning of the body's organs and tissues, including the cells responsible for glucose uptake and metabolism. Impaired glucose uptake can lead to decreased energy production and further exacerbate the patient's condition. Therefore, the nurse should remember that glucose uptake is impaired in patients in shock and take appropriate measures to address this metabolic dysfunction.

The patient's presentation of severe chest pain that worsens with respirations or lying down, along with the presence of a fever, tachycardia, and a friction rub, are consistent with acute pericarditis. Acute pericarditis is characterized by inflammation of the pericardium, the sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. This inflammation can cause chest pain that is sharp and worsens with breathing or lying down. The presence of a friction rub is a classic finding in acute pericarditis. Myocardial infarction (MI) typically presents with different symptoms such as crushing chest pain, shortness of breath, and ECG changes. Stable angina is characterized by chest pain that is predictable and relieved with rest or nitroglycerin. Pericardial effusion may cause symptoms such as dyspnea, but it does not typically present with severe chest pain.

During shock states, the body switches from aerobic to anaerobic cellular metabolism. This switch is due to decreased oxygen supply to the cells. Anaerobic metabolism produces ATP at a slower rate compared to aerobic metabolism. As a result, there is a decrease in ATP production. ATP is the main energy source for cellular processes, so a decrease in ATP production can lead to cellular dysfunction and organ damage.

The nurse's best response would be "Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency." Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that is often caused by smoking. However, in some cases, it can also be caused by a genetic condition called alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency. This condition leads to a deficiency of a protein called alpha-1-antitrypsin, which helps protect the lungs from damage. Without enough of this protein, the lungs are more susceptible to damage from the enzymes released by immune cells, leading to the development of emphysema.

Based on the given information, the patient is a 62-year-old male who experiences chest pain at rest and with exertion, and the pain often occurs at night. This pattern suggests Prinzmetal angina, also known as variant angina. Prinzmetal angina is caused by vasospasms of the coronary arteries, which can occur at rest and may be triggered by emotional stress or exposure to cold. Unlike stable angina, which is typically caused by physical exertion and relieved by rest, Prinzmetal angina can occur at rest and is not necessarily relieved by rest.

Aortic regurgitation is the most likely diagnosis documented on the chart. Aortic regurgitation is a condition in which the aortic valve does not close properly, causing blood to flow back into the left ventricle. This condition can be caused by atherosclerosis, which can lead to damage or weakening of the aortic valve. Given the patient's history of hypertension and atherosclerosis, it is likely that these conditions have contributed to the development of aortic regurgitation.

The elevated blood pressure in a 68-year-old female with left heart failure is most likely caused by sympathetic nervous system compensation for decreased cardiac output. When the heart is unable to pump effectively, the sympathetic nervous system is activated to increase heart rate and constrict blood vessels, in an attempt to maintain blood pressure and perfusion to vital organs. This compensatory response helps to maintain blood pressure, but it can also contribute to the progression of heart failure.

The nurse should include in the teaching that the most common cause of pulmonary edema is left heart failure. Pulmonary edema occurs when there is an accumulation of fluid in the lungs, and left heart failure can lead to an increased pressure in the left side of the heart, causing fluid to back up into the lungs. Right heart failure can also cause pulmonary edema, but it is less common compared to left heart failure. Asthma and lung cancer are not typically associated with the development of pulmonary edema.

The correct answer is "Transudative". In this scenario, the patient's history of cirrhosis suggests that the pleural effusion is likely a result of increased hydrostatic pressure in the blood vessels of the liver. Transudative fluid is characterized by a low protein content and is typically caused by systemic factors, such as congestive heart failure or liver disease. Therefore, when giving report, the nurse will refer to this fluid as transudative to indicate its likely origin and composition.

The patient's difficulty expiring a given volume of air suggests that there is an obstruction in their airways, causing air to be trapped. This is a characteristic of obstructive pulmonary disease, such as emphysema. Restrictive pulmonary disease is characterized by difficulty inhaling, not exhaling. Atelectatic refers to collapsed lung tissue, which is not mentioned in the scenario. Pleuritic refers to inflammation of the pleura, the lining of the lungs, which is also not mentioned in the scenario. Therefore, the most likely explanation for the patient's symptoms is obstructive pulmonary disease.

Left heart failure is the correct answer because it is a potential cause for the patient's right heart failure. Left heart failure occurs when the left side of the heart is unable to effectively pump blood to the rest of the body. This can lead to increased pressure in the pulmonary veins and subsequently increased pulmonary pressure, which can result in right heart failure. Therefore, monitoring for left heart failure is important in this patient to prevent further complications.

Chronic bronchitis is characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing. The thick mucus from hypertrophied glands is the most likely cause of this condition. The hypertrophied glands produce excessive mucus, which can obstruct the airways and lead to closure of the airway during expiration. This can result in symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Ventilation-perfusion mismatch refers to an imbalance between the amount of air reaching the alveoli and the blood flow to the lungs, which is not directly related to the closure of the airway. Hyperventilation and thinning smooth muscle in the bronchioles are not typically associated with chronic bronchitis.

A low ventilation-perfusion ratio refers to an imbalance between the amount of air reaching the alveoli and the blood flow through the pulmonary capillaries. In this scenario, shunting occurs, which means that blood is being poorly oxygenated and bypassing the alveoli. This leads to a decrease in oxygenation and an increase in the amount of deoxygenated blood returning to the systemic circulation. Therefore, the correct answer is shunting.

The nurse should advise the patient to avoid trans fats. Trans fats are known to increase LDL cholesterol levels and decrease HDL cholesterol levels, which is already a concern for this patient. Consuming trans fats can further worsen his lipid profile and increase his risk for cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, it is important for the patient to avoid foods that contain trans fats in order to maintain a healthier lipid profile.

Smoking cigarettes is a risk factor for Raynaud's disease and can worsen the symptoms. It causes vasoconstriction, narrowing the blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the extremities, which can trigger Raynaud's attacks. Therefore, if a patient with Raynaud's disease smokes cigarettes, it indicates a need for further teaching on the importance of quitting smoking to manage their condition effectively.

The most likely cause for the impaired vision, chronic edema, and renal insufficiency in a 55-year-old female with undiagnosed hypertension is end-organ damage. Hypertension can lead to damage in various organs, including the eyes, kidneys, and cardiovascular system. The increased pressure in the blood vessels can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the eyes, leading to impaired vision. It can also damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, resulting in renal insufficiency. Chronic edema can occur due to fluid retention caused by the compromised cardiovascular system. Therefore, end-organ damage is the most likely explanation for these findings.

Chronic venous insufficiency is a condition where the veins in the legs are unable to adequately pump blood back to the heart. This results in blood pooling in the veins and can lead to various symptoms, including edema (swelling) and skin hyperpigmentation. Skin hyperpigmentation occurs due to the accumulation of hemosiderin, a breakdown product of red blood cells, in the skin. This causes the skin to appear dark or discolored. Deep vein thrombus formation and gangrene are potential complications of chronic venous insufficiency but are not expected assessment findings. Edema above the knee is not specific to chronic venous insufficiency and can occur in other conditions as well.

In infective endocarditis, microorganisms are sequestered in a fibrin clot. This means that they are trapped within a clot, making it difficult for inflammatory cells to reach and eliminate them. This allows the microorganisms to continue to colonize and cause infection. The other options are not correct explanations for why inflammatory cells have difficulty limiting colonization in endocarditis.

As left heart failure progresses, the left ventricular preload increases. This means that the volume of blood returning to the left ventricle from the lungs increases, putting additional strain on the already weakened left ventricle. This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention. Monitoring and managing the patient's fluid status becomes crucial in order to prevent further complications.

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Atherosclerosis is caused by endothelial injury and inflammation. This refers to damage to the inner lining of the blood vessels, called the endothelium, which can occur due to various factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, high levels of cholesterol, and diabetes. When the endothelium is injured, it triggers an inflammatory response, leading to the accumulation of cholesterol, fats, and other substances in the blood vessel walls, forming plaques. Over time, these plaques can narrow and harden the arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Based on the information provided, the 68-year-old male presenting with chest pain and a history of stable angina that has now become unstable is most likely experiencing an impending myocardial infarction (MI). Unstable angina is characterized by chest pain that occurs at rest or with minimal exertion and is often a precursor to a heart attack. This suggests that there may be a blockage in one or more of the coronary arteries, leading to decreased blood flow to the heart muscle. This can result in ischemia and potentially progress to a myocardial infarction if not treated promptly.

The correct diagnosis in this case is Aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is a condition where there is narrowing or obstruction of the aortic valve, which impairs the flow of blood from the left ventricle into the aorta. In this patient with rheumatic heart disease, lipoprotein deposition with chronic inflammation has caused the narrowing of the aortic valve, leading to aortic stenosis. Aortic regurgitation involves the leaking of blood back into the left ventricle, which is not described in this case. Mitral regurgitation and mitral stenosis involve issues with the mitral valve, which is not the primary problem in this patient.

The nurse suspects aortic regurgitation based on the findings of widened pulse pressure and throbbing peripheral pulses. Aortic regurgitation is characterized by the backflow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole, leading to an increased volume of blood in the ventricle. This increased volume causes an elevated systolic pressure and widened pulse pressure. Throbbing peripheral pulses are also a characteristic sign of aortic regurgitation due to the forceful ejection of blood into the arterial system.

Absorption atelectasis occurs when there is a blockage or obstruction in the airway, preventing air from reaching the alveoli. This leads to the absorption of the air already present in the alveoli, causing the lung to collapse. In this case, the patient recently underwent surgery, which can lead to the accumulation of mucus or other secretions in the airway, causing the obstruction. The symptoms of dyspnea, cough, fever, and leukocytosis are consistent with absorption atelectasis. The nurse would observe this condition on the chart as the likely cause of the patient's collapsed lung.

In a patient with chronic pulmonary disease and elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, the nurse should assess for right heart failure. Right heart failure occurs when the right side of the heart is unable to effectively pump blood to the lungs for oxygenation. This can be caused by chronic lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary hypertension, which increase the workload on the right side of the heart. Symptoms of right heart failure include fluid retention, edema in the legs and abdomen, and liver congestion.

Foam cells in a fatty streak are macrophages that engulf low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Macrophages are immune cells that play a crucial role in the body's defense mechanism. In the case of a fatty streak, which is an early stage of atherosclerosis, macrophages accumulate in the arterial walls and engulf LDL particles. This process leads to the formation of foam cells, which are characterized by their lipid-filled appearance. The accumulation of foam cells contributes to the development of atherosclerotic plaques and the progression of cardiovascular disease.

The nurse had the patient stand up in order to check for orthostatic hypotension. This condition is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure when a person changes position from lying down or sitting to standing up. By having the patient stand up, the nurse can observe if the patient experiences a significant decrease in blood pressure, which can help diagnose orthostatic hypotension.

If a decrease in kidney perfusion occurs, it would ultimately cause increased systemic vascular resistance. Kidney perfusion refers to the blood flow to the kidneys, and if it decreases, it can lead to the activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. This system causes vasoconstriction, which increases systemic vascular resistance. Increased systemic vascular resistance can further strain the left ventricle, worsening left ventricular failure. This can lead to symptoms such as fluid retention, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

Inadequate tissue perfusion refers to a condition where there is a reduced blood flow to the body tissues. When a person is in shock, their blood pressure drops significantly, leading to poor circulation and oxygen delivery to the tissues. This lack of adequate blood flow impairs cellular metabolism, causing a decrease in the production of energy and essential nutrients for the cells. Therefore, inadequate tissue perfusion is the cause of impairment in cellular metabolism in a person who is in shock.

The correct answer is "Alveolar dead space." When a series of alveoli in the left lower lobe receive adequate ventilation but do not have adequate perfusion, it is referred to as alveolar dead space. This means that the alveoli are not effectively participating in gas exchange, as there is ventilation without proper blood flow. This can result in a decrease in oxygenation and an increase in carbon dioxide levels.

Restrictive lung disease caused by fibrosis leads to decreased functional residual capacity. Functional residual capacity is the volume of air remaining in the lungs after a normal expiration. In fibrosis, the lung tissue becomes stiff and less elastic, causing a decrease in the ability of the lungs to expand and hold air. This results in a decrease in the functional residual capacity.

The patient's symptoms of substernal pain, discomfort in the left shoulder and jaw, lasting for a short duration and subsiding with rest, are consistent with stable angina. Stable angina is typically triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress and is relieved with rest or nitroglycerin. This pattern of symptoms occurring frequently over the past few months with similar exertion further supports the diagnosis of stable angina. Unstable angina is characterized by symptoms that occur at rest or with minimal exertion and are more severe and prolonged. Prinzmetal angina is caused by vasospasm of the coronary arteries, and myocardial infarction (MI) refers to a complete blockage of a coronary artery resulting in heart muscle damage.

Anemia can cause high-output failure in a patient. Anemia is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a low hemoglobin level. This can lead to a reduced oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood, causing the heart to pump harder and faster in an attempt to compensate for the decreased oxygen supply. This increased workload on the heart can eventually lead to high-output failure, where the heart is unable to meet the body's demands. Therefore, if a patient is experiencing anemia, the nurse should assess for signs and symptoms of high-output failure.

Pulmonary symptoms in left heart failure are a result of pulmonary vascular congestion. In left heart failure, the left ventricle is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to a backup of blood in the pulmonary veins and increased pressure in the pulmonary circulation. This increased pressure causes fluid to leak into the lungs, resulting in pulmonary congestion. This congestion leads to symptoms such as cough and dyspnea. Therefore, the nurse should remember that pulmonary symptoms in left heart failure are due to pulmonary vascular congestion.

Rigidity of the aorta is the most likely cause of the elevated blood pressure in this 65-year-old male. As people age, the walls of the arteries, including the aorta, may become stiff and less elastic. This rigidity can lead to increased resistance to blood flow, resulting in higher systolic blood pressure. The diastolic pressure remains normal because it reflects the relaxation phase of the heart. Vasospasm, decreased sodium intake, and lung disease are not typically associated with this type of pressure elevation.

Encephalopathy is the correct answer because when there is a rapid onset of malignant hypertension, it can lead to damage in the blood vessels of the brain, causing encephalopathy. Encephalopathy refers to a group of neurological disorders that affect brain function, leading to symptoms such as confusion, altered mental status, seizures, and even coma. Monitoring for encephalopathy is crucial in these cases to detect any neurological changes and provide appropriate medical interventions.

A 20-year-old female with fever and septic shock would likely exhibit low blood pressure, tachycardia, and generalized edema. Septic shock is characterized by a systemic inflammatory response to infection, leading to widespread inflammation and vasodilation. This vasodilation causes a decrease in blood pressure, which is compensated for by an increase in heart rate (tachycardia). Generalized edema can occur as a result of fluid leakage from blood vessels due to increased capillary permeability caused by the inflammatory response. These assessment findings are consistent with the pathophysiology of septic shock.

The most likely type of cancer to be documented on the chart is non-small cell carcinoma. This is because the patient's history of smoking, along with the symptoms of chest pain, cough, sputum production, and pneumonia, are all consistent with non-small cell lung cancer. Adenoma, small cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma are not typically associated with smoking or the symptoms described.

A detached blood clot is known as a thromboembolus. This term refers to a blood clot that has broken free from its original location and is now traveling through the bloodstream. It can potentially cause blockages in blood vessels, leading to serious complications such as stroke or pulmonary embolism. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to document the term "thromboembolus" accurately to convey the specific condition of a detached blood clot.

Chest pain, tachycardia, tachypnea, fever, and hemoptysis are all expected assessment findings in pulmonary embolism (PE). Chest pain is commonly experienced in PE due to the obstruction of blood flow in the pulmonary arteries. Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) and tachypnea (rapid breathing) occur as the body compensates for the decreased oxygen supply. Fever can be present due to inflammation caused by the clot. Hemoptysis, or coughing up blood, can occur if the clot causes damage to the blood vessels in the lungs.

Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) is a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries that supply the lungs. Fatigue and dyspnea (shortness of breath) are common symptoms of IPAH due to the increased workload on the heart and lungs. Jugular vein distention, which is the swelling of the jugular veins in the neck, can also occur in IPAH due to the increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries. Therefore, the correct answer options for characteristic features of IPAH are fatigue, dyspnea, and jugular vein distention.

In patients with multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), the lungs are often the first organ to fail. This is because MODS is characterized by the failure of multiple organs, and the lungs are particularly susceptible due to their constant exposure to external factors such as infections, toxins, and trauma. Lung failure can manifest as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which is a severe condition that impairs the ability to breathe and exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to closely monitor the lung function in patients with MODS to detect any signs of respiratory distress and initiate appropriate interventions promptly.

Acute orthostatic hypotension refers to a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing up. Prolonged immobility can lead to this condition because it causes blood to pool in the lower extremities, resulting in a decrease in blood volume and subsequent drop in blood pressure. Drug action can also cause acute orthostatic hypotension as certain medications can affect blood pressure regulation. Starvation can lead to orthostatic hypotension due to a decrease in blood volume caused by inadequate fluid and nutrient intake. Volume depletion, which can occur due to dehydration or excessive fluid loss, can also cause a drop in blood pressure upon standing. Exercise, however, does not typically cause acute orthostatic hypotension.