You are the nurse caring for a client with mitral valve prolapse. What is the significance of a systolic murmur?
A) Tightening of the chordae tendineae
B) Mitral regurgitation
C) Heart palpitation
D) Impending heart failure

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A systolic murmur in a client with mitral valve prolapse could indicate mitral valve regurgitation, where blood flows back into the left atrium during systole instead of being pumped out to the body. This can lead to potential complications such as heart failure if left untreated. Tightening of the chordae tendineae can cause an early or mid-diastolic murmur, while heart palpitations may be a symptom but would not be directly related to a systolic murmur. Impending heart failure would not be the immediate significance of a systolic murmur, but rather a potential complication if left untreated over time.

You Are the Nurse Caring for a Client with Mitral