A patient is admitted with possible congestive heart failure. A nurse identifies that a blood test that could confirm this condition would be a
A) B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) test.
B) Serum creatinine test.
C) Blood glucose test.
D) Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) test measures the level of a hormone in the blood that is released by the heart when it is under stress or is unable to pump blood effectively. Elevated levels of BNP are associated with heart failure and can help confirm a diagnosis. The other three tests (serum creatinine, blood glucose, and BUN) are not specific to congestive heart failure and may be ordered for other reasons.

A Patient Is Admitted with Possible Congestive Heart Failure