Margaret Leland is 76 years old; she is retired and lives alone. Her only daughter lives two hours away. She has a history of heart attack, smoking for 20 years, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. She reports decreased appetite and disinterest in food. Ms. Leland is admitted to the cardiac unit with shortness of breath and pulmonary edema. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Margaret Leland's history of heart attack, hypertension, and shortness of breath with pulmonary edema suggest heart failure as the most likely diagnosis. Her decreased appetite and disinterest in food may also be related to her underlying cardiovascular condition. Stroke and myocardial infarction are less likely based on the given symptoms and medical history. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be a contributing factor, but does not explain all of her symptoms.

Margaret Leland Is 76 Years Old; She Is Retired and Lives