Questions: Question 14 of 15
Which of the following are backward effects of right ventricular failure? Select all that apply.
Pulmonary edema
Jugular vein distention
Decreased arterial blood pressure
Hepatomegaly
Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
Transcript text: Question 14 of 15
Which of the following are backward effects of right ventricular failure? Select all that apply.
Pulmonary edema
Jugular vein distention
Decreased arterial blood pressure
Hepatomegaly
Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
Solution
The backward effects of right ventricular failure primarily involve the systemic venous circulation, as the right ventricle is responsible for pumping blood into the pulmonary circulation. When the right ventricle fails, blood backs up into the systemic venous system. Let's evaluate each option:
Pulmonary edema: This is not a backward effect of right ventricular failure. Pulmonary edema is associated with left ventricular failure, where blood backs up into the pulmonary circulation.
Jugular vein distention: This is a backward effect of right ventricular failure. When the right ventricle fails, blood backs up into the systemic venous system, leading to increased pressure in the jugular veins.
Decreased arterial blood pressure: This is not a backward effect of right ventricular failure. It is more related to forward effects, where the heart's inability to pump effectively can lead to decreased cardiac output and lower blood pressure.
Hepatomegaly: This is a backward effect of right ventricular failure. Blood backing up into the systemic circulation can lead to congestion in the liver, causing it to enlarge.
Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea: This is not a backward effect of right ventricular failure. It is typically associated with left ventricular failure and pulmonary congestion.
In summary, the backward effects of right ventricular failure from the given options are: