2024 PN NCLEX Questions Nursing Practice Question
An adult client undergoes various diagnostic tests to determine the pumping ability of the heart. The nurse notes that the results of these tests indicate that the client's cardiac output is 5 L/min. The nurse makes which conclusion?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A cardiac output of 5 L/min is considered normal for adults, typically ranging from 4 to 8 L/min depending on individual factors.
- **Option A** is incorrect because a low cardiac output would generally be below 4 L/min, indicating insufficient blood flow.
- **Option B** is also incorrect; a high cardiac output would exceed 8 L/min, which is not the case here.
- **Option D** is misleading, as a normal cardiac output does not necessitate a blood transfusion unless there are other clinical indications.
Thus, the results indicate that the client has a normal cardiac output.