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Question 1
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A patient with chronic heart failure is prescribed digoxin. Which of the following electrolyte imbalances increases the risk of digoxin toxicity?
A
B
C
D
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Sample CV-BC Practice Questions
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1A patient with chronic heart failure is prescribed digoxin. Which of the following electrolyte imbalances increases the risk of digoxin toxicity?
A.Hyperkalemia
B.Hypokalemia
C.Hypercalcemia
D.Hypocalcemia
Explanation: Hypokalemia (low potassium) is a major risk factor for digoxin toxicity because it enhances the drug's effects on the myocardium. This can lead to dangerous arrhythmias. Nurses should monitor potassium levels closely in patients taking digoxin.
2A patient is admitted with a diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which of the following is the most appropriate initial intervention?
A.Administering a bolus of heparin
B.Applying warm compresses to the affected leg
C.Encouraging the patient to ambulate
D.Preparing the patient for surgery
Explanation: The initial intervention for DVT is to administer a bolus of heparin to prevent further clot formation. Ambulation is contraindicated as it can dislodge the clot. Warm compresses can help with comfort but are not the priority. Surgery is not the first-line treatment.
3A patient with atrial fibrillation is at high risk for which of the following complications?
A.Hemorrhagic stroke
B.Ischemic stroke
C.Myocardial infarction
D.Ventricular tachycardia
Explanation: Atrial fibrillation causes the atria to quiver, leading to blood stasis and clot formation. These clots can travel to the brain and cause an ischemic stroke. Anticoagulation therapy is crucial for these patients.
4A patient with a history of hypertension is prescribed a thiazide diuretic. Which of the following should the nurse monitor for?
A.Hyperkalemia
B.Hypokalemia
C.Hyperglycemia
D.Hypoglycemia
Explanation: Thiazide diuretics can cause potassium wasting, leading to hypokalemia. Nurses should monitor potassium levels and encourage patients to eat potassium-rich foods.
5A patient is scheduled for a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Which of the following is a key component of preoperative teaching?
A.Informing the patient that they will be on a ventilator for several days
B.Teaching the patient how to use an incentive spirometer
C.Discussing the importance of a low-fat diet
D.Explaining that they will be able to drive home after the surgery
Explanation: Teaching the patient how to use an incentive spirometer is crucial to prevent postoperative pulmonary complications such as atelectasis and pneumonia. While the patient will be on a ventilator, it's typically for a shorter period. A low-fat diet is important long-term, but not the immediate priority. Driving is not permitted immediately after surgery.
6A patient with a history of mitral valve stenosis is at risk for which of the following?
A.Right-sided heart failure
B.Left-sided heart failure
C.Aortic regurgitation
D.Pulmonary hypertension
Explanation: Mitral valve stenosis obstructs blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, causing increased pressure in the left atrium and pulmonary vasculature. This can lead to pulmonary hypertension.
7A patient is recovering from a myocardial infarction. Which of the following is an important component of a cardiac rehabilitation program?
A.A high-intensity exercise regimen
B.A low-sodium diet
C.Stress management techniques
D.All of the above
Explanation: Cardiac rehabilitation is a comprehensive program that includes a low-sodium diet, stress management techniques, and a gradually progressing exercise regimen. A high-intensity exercise regimen would be inappropriate.
8A patient is diagnosed with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Which of the following is a classic symptom?
A.Intermittent claudication
B.Pitting edema
C.Varicose veins
D.Stasis dermatitis
Explanation: Intermittent claudication, or pain in the legs with activity that is relieved by rest, is the classic symptom of PAD. Pitting edema, varicose veins, and stasis dermatitis are more commonly associated with venous insufficiency.
9A patient is taking an ACE inhibitor. Which of the following side effects should the nurse monitor for?
A.A persistent, dry cough
B.Tachycardia
C.Hypertension
D.Fluid retention
Explanation: A persistent, dry cough is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors. If it becomes bothersome, the patient may be switched to an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB).
10A patient has a new prescription for sublingual nitroglycerin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?
A.Take one tablet every 5 minutes for up to 3 doses for chest pain.
B.Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
C.Store the tablets in a brightly lit, warm place.
D.Take the tablet with food to prevent an upset stomach.
Explanation: For acute angina, the patient should take one sublingual nitroglycerin tablet every 5 minutes for up to 3 doses. If chest pain persists, they should call 911. The tablet should be placed under the tongue and allowed to dissolve. It should not be swallowed. The tablets should be stored in a cool, dark place.
About the CV-BC Exam
The ANCC CV-BC certification validates the specialized knowledge and skills of registered nurses in cardiac-vascular nursing, covering assessment, pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies, device management, and patient education.
Questions
175 scored questions
Time Limit
3.5 hours
Passing Score
Pass/Fail (scaled score)
Exam Fee
$395 (American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC))
CV-BC Exam Content Outline
30%
Assessment and Diagnosis
Cardiovascular assessment, diagnostic procedures, and hemodynamic monitoring.
30%
Planning and Implementation
Pharmacological therapies, non-pharmacological therapies, and device management.
20%
Evaluation and Modification
Evaluation of outcomes, modification of care, and quality improvement.
20%
Patient and Community Education
Patient education, community resources, and health promotion.
How to Pass the CV-BC Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: Pass/Fail (scaled score)
- Exam length: 175 questions
- Time limit: 3.5 hours
- Exam fee: $395
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts