The nurse expects to observe which of the following assessment finding

The nurse expects to observe which of the following assessment findings in a client diagnosed with left-sided heart failure? (Select all that apply.)

1. Ankle edema
2. Bilateral crackles
3. Mental confusion
4. Distended neck veins
5. Activity-induced dyspnea
6. Being awakened by shortness of breath

ANSWER

ANS: 2, 3, 5, 6
Clinical findings of left-sided heart failure include crackles on auscultation, hypoxia, shortness of breath on exertion and often at rest, cough, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. The remaining options are more reflective of right-sided failure.