Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

What is a common type of pain experienced in acute endocarditis?

1. Intermittent claudication

2. Chest pain that increases with movement

3. Pleuretic pain relieved by rest

4. Symptoms similar to heart failure

The correct answer is: Symptoms similar to heart failure

Acute endocarditis commonly presents with symptoms similar to heart failure due to the impact on heart function and the hemodynamic changes that arise from valvular dysfunction or septic emboli. When the heart struggles to pump efficiently, patients may experience symptoms such as fatigue, dyspnea (shortness of breath), and fluid overload, which are hallmark signs of heart failure. Chest pain can arise in cases of acute endocarditis, but it is more often associated with other conditions. The nature of the pain in heart failure parallels the systemic effects of the infection and related complications rather than providing a specific type of pain like pleuritic or movement-induced pain. Intermittent claudication is related to peripheral artery disease and does not typically correlate with endocarditis. Pain that increases with movement or pleuritic pain relieved by rest could indicate other issues such as musculoskeletal pain or pulmonary problems, which are also not specific indicators of acute endocarditis. Therefore, recognizing symptoms that resemble heart failure is crucial for understanding the implications of acute endocarditis and facilitating timely, appropriate interventions.