Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 67%
Full-length
The nurse is caring for a client who has acute pericarditis. Which of the following findings would be a priority to follow up?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Muffled heart tones and jugular venous distension (B) suggest pericardial effusion or tamponade, a life-threatening complication requiring urgent follow-up. Chest pain (A) and friction rub (C) are expected, and mild fever (D) is less urgent.