Chapter 35: Assessment of the Cardiovascular System Test Bank

1. The nurse is caring for a client who has had a recent myocardial infarction involving the left ventricle. Which assessment finding is expected? a. Faint S1 and S2 sounds b. Decreased cardiac output c. Increased blood pressure d. Absent peripheral pulses ANS: B The myocardium is the layer responsible for the contractile force of the heart. Damage to this layer can result in decreased cardiac output. This most likely would result in decreased blood pressure and strength of peripheral pulses. Absent peripheral pulses would be caused by an arterial occlusion. S1 and S2 most likely would not be affected. DIF: Cognitive Level: Application/Applying or higher REF: N/A TOP: Client Needs Category: Physiological Integrity (Physiological Adaptation— Pathophysiology) MSC: Integrated Process: Nursing Process (Assessment)