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Cardiovascular Assessment FNP Review Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What is the normal location to auscultate the aortic valve?✔✔ At the second intercostal space, right sternal border
What does a widened pulse pressure typically indicate?✔✔ Increased stroke volume or decreased arterial compliance
What is the significance of jugular venous distention during cardiovascular assessment?✔✔ It indicates elevated right atrial pressure often due to right-sided heart failure
How is peripheral edema graded during physical examination?✔✔ On a scale from 1+ (mild) to 4+ (severe) based on depth and persistence of pitting
What is the typical presentation of angina pectoris?✔✔ Chest pressure or discomfort triggered by exertion and relieved by rest or nitroglycerin 1 / 3
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What does a harsh systolic murmur heard at the right upper sternal border most likely represent?✔✔ Aortic stenosis
Which pulse characteristic is described as “water hammer” or collapsing pulse?✔✔ Bounding pulse often seen in aortic regurgitation
What is the normal range for central venous pressure (CVP)?✔✔ 2-8 mm Hg
What does a pericardial friction rub suggest during auscultation?✔✔ Pericarditis
Which physical sign is suggestive of chronic arterial insufficiency?✔✔ Thin, shiny skin with decreased hair growth on the legs
What heart sound is associated with ventricular filling during early diastole and can indicate decreased compliance? 2 / 3
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✔✔ The S4 gallop
How is capillary refill time assessed and what does prolonged refill indicate?✔✔ By pressing the nail bed and observing color return; prolonged refill suggests poor peripheral perfusion
What effect does inspiration have on heart sounds in normal physiology?✔✔ Increases right heart sounds and delays closure of the pulmonic valve
What is the significance of a displaced apical impulse on palpation?✔✔ It may indicate left ventricular enlargement or hypertrophy
Which vein is commonly assessed for signs of thrombosis in the lower extremities?✔✔ The great saphenous vein
What does a paradoxical pulse (pulsus paradoxus) indicate?✔✔ Significant drop in systolic blood pressure during inspiration, seen in cardiac tamponade or severe asthma
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