A patient with mitral stenosis develops increasing fatigue, exertional breathlessness and a new irregular pulse. Which complication should the nurse suspect?
Correct answer: A. Atrial fibrillation with reduced cardiac output
- A. Atrial fibrillation with reduced cardiac output
- B. Complete heart block with fixed ventricular rhythm
- C. Acute aortic regurgitation with bounding pulses
- D. Ventricular fibrillation with immediate cardiac arrest
Explanation
Mitral stenosis enlarges the left atrium and increases the risk of atrial fibrillation. The irregular rhythm can reduce ventricular filling and cardiac output, worsening breathlessness and fatigue; ventricular fibrillation would cause pulseless collapse.
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About Cardiovascular Nursing
Covers assessment and nursing care for hypertension, coronary artery disease, angina, myocardial infarction, heart failure, valvular disease and dysrhythmias. It includes interpreting vital signs and ECG findings, managing chest pain, monitoring cardiac medicines, recognizing complications and distinguishing left-sided from right-sided heart failure.
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