A patient with a 10-year history of heart failure presents to the emergency department reporting severe shortness of breath.Assessment reveals crackles throughout the lung fields and labored breathing.The patient takes beta blockers,ACE inhibitors,and diuretics as directed.What treatment strategies does the nurse plan to implement for immediate short-term management?
A) Dobutamine
B) Intraaortic balloon pump
C) Nesiritide
D) Ventricular assist device
E) Biventricular pacemaker

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This patient is showing signs and symptoms of an acute exacerbation of heart failure.Dobutamine and nesiritide are medications administered for acute short-term management; mechanical assist with an intraaortic balloon pump or insertion of a biventricular pacemaker also may be warranted as long-term therapy,but neither is appropriate for this acute exacerbation.

A Patient with a 10-Year History of Heart Failure Presents