The client diagnosed with inadequate closure of the mitral valve is scheduled for surgery and asks the nurse, "Why does it matter if my valve leaks?" What is the nurse's best response to explain why this mitral valve needs to be repaired?
A)"Blood backflows from the left ventricle to the left atrium, reducing available blood flowing to the body."
B)"Blood backflows from the right ventricle to the right atrium, reducing available blood flow to the lungs."
C)"Blood backflows from the aorta into the left ventricle, reducing blood pressure and causing dizziness."
D)"Blood backflows from the pulmonary artery into the right ventricle, reducing blood flow to the lungs."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mitral valve is located between the left atrium and left ventricle. Inadequate closure of this valve allows blood to flow backward (regurgitate) from the left ventricle into the left atrium when the ventricle contracts, instead of all of it moving forward into the aorta and out to the body. This reduces the efficiency of the heart's pumping action and the amount of blood that is circulated to the body's organs and tissues.

The Client Diagnosed with Inadequate Closure of the Mitral Valve