Question

A client, diagnosed with left-sided heart failure, should be taught to recognize the signs and symptoms of the onset of what classic manifestation of this condition?

Answer 1

Answer:

Shortness of breath at the least effort

Explanation:

Left heart failure causes fluid to accumulate in the lungs and consequently shortness of breath. Initially, shortness of breath occurs only during exertion, but as heart failure progresses, shortness of breath begins to occur with less effort and finally even at rest. People with severe left heart failure may feel short of breath when lying down as gravity causes more fluid to enter the lungs. These people often wake up panting or wheezing (a clinical condition called paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea). When sitting, some of the fluid is drained to the lower lungs, which makes breathing easier. People with left heart failure feel tired and weak during physical activity because their muscles are not getting enough blood.

A client diagnosed with left-sided heart failure should be taught to recognize this sign and receive guidance on postures to be taken to improve the condition and in case of no improvement seek a hospital.