When caring for a pregnant woman with suspected cardiomyopathy,the nurse must be alert for signs and symptoms of cardiac decompensation,which include
A) A regular heart rate and hypertension
B) An increased urinary output, tachycardia, and dry cough
C) Shortness of breath, bradycardia, and hypertension
D) Dyspnea; crackles; and an irregular, weak pulse

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dyspnea, crackles, and an irregular, weak pulse are all signs of cardiac decompensation in a pregnant woman with suspected cardiomyopathy. A regular heart rate and hypertension (A) may not necessarily indicate decompensation, and an increased urinary output, tachycardia, and dry cough (B) are not specific signs of cardiac decompensation. Shortness of breath, bradycardia, and hypertension (C) may be contradictory as bradycardia is a slowing of the heart rate, which is opposite to tachycardia.

When Caring for a Pregnant Woman with Suspected Cardiomyopathy,the Nurse