Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

What is a key indicator that Sara, a patient recovering from heart failure, is ready to go home?

1. Her ECG readings are normal

2. She tells you she is ready to go home

3. You observe her ambulating in the hallways, free from dyspnea

4. She is free from dyspnea and fatigue

The correct answer is: You observe her ambulating in the hallways, free from dyspnea

In assessing readiness for discharge in a patient recovering from heart failure, observing the patient ambulating in the hallways without experiencing dyspnea is a crucial indicator of their physical stability and improved functional status. This observation suggests that the patient has regained enough strength and cardiovascular stability to perform activities of daily living, which is essential for a safe transition to home care. Normal ECG readings indicate that the heart's electrical activity is stable, but it doesn't encompass the patient's overall functional capacity or readiness to manage their health at home. While a patient's verbal expression of readiness is important, it may not accurately reflect their physical condition or necessary clinical criteria for discharge. Being free from dyspnea and fatigue is a positive sign; however, the ability to ambulate without distress represents a practical demonstration of their overall recovery and capability to engage in necessary activities post-discharge. Thus, the ability to ambulate without dyspnea provides a more comprehensive view of the patient's readiness to go home.