A client with coronary artery disease is prescribed nitroglycerin. The nurse explains that this medication improves blood flow to the myocardium. How does nitroglycerin primarily work?

A client has a low hematocrit. The nurse understands that hematocrit reflects the percentage of blood volume composed of red blood cells. Which clinical finding would the nurse expect?

A trauma client receives emergency blood products. Shortly after the transfusion begins, the client develops fever, chills, back pain, and dark urine. The nurse suspects an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction. Which mechanism best explains this reaction?

A nurse is reviewing plasma proteins. The student correctly states that fibrinogen is involved in clot formation. Which plasma protein is most directly associated with immune defense?

A 46-year-old client reports that his wedding ring no longer fits and his shoe size has increased over the past several years. Assessment reveals a prominent jaw, enlarged hands, thickened skin, and a broad nose. The nurse understands that the client’s epiphyseal plates are already closed. Which disorder is most likely?

A client has a low albumin level. The nurse understands that albumin is an important plasma protein. Which problem is most likely when albumin is decreased?

A client asks why red blood cells need to be replaced continuously. The nurse explains that mature erythrocytes lack nuclei and many organelles. Which statement best explains the life span of red blood cells?

A 60-year-old client with long-standing hypertension reports shortness of breath and exercise intolerance. Assessment reveals left ventricular hypertrophy. The nurse understands that the hypertrophy developed because the heart has been pumping against increased resistance for years. Which cardiovascular parameter was chronically elevated?

A 58-year-old client develops severe bradycardia due to dysfunction of the sinoatrial node. The cardiologist recommends placement of an artificial pacemaker. What is the primary purpose of the pacemaker?

A 65-year-old client with heart failure is prescribed digitalis. The nurse teaches that this medication increases the strength of cardiac contractions while slowing the heart rate. Which outcome indicates the medication is working effectively?