When caring for a pregnant woman with cardiac problems,the nurse must be alert for the signs and symptoms of cardiac decompensation.Which critical findings would the nurse find on assessment of the client experiencing this condition?

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Signs of cardiac decompensation include dyspnea; crackles; an irregular,weak,and rapid pulse; rapid respirations; a moist and frequent cough; generalized edema; increasing fatigue; and cyanosis of the lips and nailbeds.A regular heart rate and hypertension are not generally associated with cardiac decompensation.Of the symptoms of increased urinary output,tachycardia,and dry cough,only tachycardia is indicative of cardiac decompensation.Of the symptoms of shortness of breath,bradycardia,and hypertension,only dyspnea is indicative of cardiac decompensation.

When Caring for a Pregnant Woman with Cardiac Problems,the Nurse