NCLEX Practice Test

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Prepare for the NCLEX Exam with comprehensive study aids. Utilize flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and detailed explanations to enhance your learning and boost your confidence. Get fully ready for your exam day!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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Which is a symptom of infective endocarditis?

Bradycardia
High blood pressure
Petechia
Tachypnea

The correct answer is: Petechia

Infective endocarditis is characterized by the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream, leading to inflammation of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. One of the hallmark symptoms associated with this condition is petechiae, which are small, pinpoint hemorrhages that can appear on the skin or mucous membranes. These spots result from tiny blood vessels breaking due to the infection and can often be seen on the conjunctiva, oral mucosa, or on the skin, particularly in the limbs. Recognizing petechiae is vital for diagnosis, as it indicates a systemic infection. This symptom, along with others such as fever and heart murmurs, can guide healthcare professionals toward suspecting infective endocarditis in a patient presenting with these signs. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for timely intervention and treatment in nursing practice.