Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

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How does right-sided heart failure manifest in patients?

Hypotension
JVD
Bradycardia
Dry skin

The correct answer is: JVD

Right-sided heart failure is characterized by the heart's inability to effectively pump blood to the lungs for oxygenation. This condition can result from various factors, including left-sided heart failure and chronic pulmonary conditions. One prominent manifestation of right-sided heart failure is jugular venous distension (JVD). As the right side of the heart struggles to manage the return of blood from the body, the veins that carry blood back to the heart can become congested. This congestion leads to an increased pressure in the jugular veins, causing them to bulge or appear distended. Clinically, observing JVD is significant as it reflects fluid overload and elevated pressure in the venous system, which is a hallmark sign in right-sided heart failure. Other signs and symptoms can include peripheral edema and abdominal discomfort due to fluid accumulation, but JVD is a direct indication of the dysfunction in the right ventricle's ability to manage blood flow, making it a key clinical feature to recognize in diagnosing right-sided heart failure.