A 21-year-old at 12 weeks' gestation with her first baby has known cardiac disease, class Ⅲ, as a result of childhood rheumatic fever. During a prenatal visit, the nurse reviews the signs of cardiac decompensation with her. The nurse will know that the client understands these signs and symptoms if she states that she would notify her doctor if she had which symptom?
A) "A pulse rate increase of 10 beats per minute"
B) "Breast tenderness"
C) "Mild ankle edema"
D) "A frequent cough"

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A frequent cough can be a sign of cardiac decompensation, especially in someone with a history of cardiac disease. It may indicate fluid accumulation in the lungs due to the heart's decreased ability to pump effectively.

A 21-Year-Old at 12 Weeks' Gestation with Her First Baby