The nurse is obtaining the health history of a patient who is being assessed for possible heart failure (HF). Which patient statement should the nurse identify as being associated with this condition?
1. "I break out in a cold sweat when I eat a large meal."
2. "I am sleepy after I eat lunch every day."
3. "I have to prop myself up on three pillows to sleep at night. Otherwise I can't breathe."
4. "I feel better with my legs down when I sit in my favorite chair."
Correct Answer: 3
Needing to prop oneself up with pillows at night to breathe describes orthopnea, which is consistent with heart failure (HF). HF produces a volume excess, congestion in the lungs, and dyspnea when the patient attempts to lie down. Diaphoresis and sleepiness after meals as well as the effects of leg position are not related to a diagnosis of HF.
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