The nurse is caring for a patient with left-sided heart failure.The nurse suspects the patient is developing pulmonary edema.Which finding would confirm the nurse's suspicions?
A) Pulmonary crackles
B) Peripheral edema
C) Pink, frothy sputum
D) Elevated central venous pressure

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Patients experiencing heart failure and pulmonary edema are extremely breathless and anxious and have a sensation of suffocation.They expectorate pink,frothy sputum and feel as if they are drowning.They may sit bolt upright,gasp for breath,or thrash about.The respiratory rate is elevated,and accessory muscles of ventilation are used,with nasal flaring and bulging neck muscles.Respirations are characterized by loud inspiratory and expiratory gurgling sounds.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient with Left-Sided Heart