The nurse is teaching a patient with heart failure how to avoid activity that results in Valsalva's maneuver. Which of these observations by the nurse would indicate that the teaching has been effective?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Valsalva's maneuver involves holding the breath and straining, which can increase intra-thoracic pressure and affect cardiac output. To avoid this, the patient should avoid activities that involve straining, holding the breath or increasing intra-thoracic pressure, such as lifting heavy objects, straining while defecating or urinating, coughing, sneezing forcefully or blowing up balloons. The patient breathing normally when sitting up indicates that they are properly avoiding Valsalva's maneuver.

The Nurse Is Teaching a Patient with Heart Failure How