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?

A nurse is discussing cardiac muscle physiology. Unlike skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle has a long refractory period. Why is this characteristic important?

A nurse is explaining heart valves to a client. The client understands that valves ensure one-way blood flow. Which valve is located between the left atrium and left ventricle?

A nursing instructor reviews the layers of the heart wall. The myocardium is emphasized as the thickest layer and the one responsible for pumping blood. Why is the myocardium especially thick in the ventricles?

A nurse is reviewing a complete blood count. The student asks what an elevated white blood cell count may indicate. Which interpretation is most appropriate?