Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Test

Shortness of breath is a hallmark symptom of left-sided heart failure. This condition occurs when the left ventricle struggles to effectively pump blood out to the body, which leads to a backup of fluid into the lungs (pulmonary circulation). As fluid accumulates in the lungs, it can cause pulmonary congestion, making it difficult for the patient to breathe, particularly during exertion or when lying flat. This results in symptoms like shortness of breath, which is also known as dyspnea.

In contrast, increased jugular venous distention (JVD) is more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure, where fluid backs up into the systemic venous system. Peripheral edema is another symptom linked with right-sided heart failure, as the right side is responsible for returning blood to the heart. Nausea can occur in various medical conditions but is not specific to left-sided heart failure. Thus, shortness of breath stands out as a key indicator of left-sided heart failure due to the impaired circulation of blood and resultant fluid accumulation in the lungs.