In assessing cardiovascular clients with progression of aortic stenosis, the nurse should be aware that there is typically:

In assessing cardiovascular clients with progression of aortic stenosis, the nurse should be aware that there is typically:
A . Decreased pulmonary blood flow and cyanosis
B . Increased pressure in the pulmonary veins and pulmonary edema
C . Systemic venous engorgement
D . Increased left ventricular systolic pressures and hypertrophy

View Answer

Answer: D

Explanation:

(A) These signs are seen in pulmonic stenosis or in response to pulmonary congestion and edema and mitral stenosis.

(B) These signs are seen primarily in mitral stenosis or as a late sign in aortic stenosis after left ventricular failure.

(C) These signs are seen primarily in right-sided heart valve dysfunction.

(D) Left ventricular hypertrophy occurs to increase muscle mass and overcome the stenosis; left ventricular pressures increase as left ventricular volume increases owing to insufficient emptying.