National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

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What condition is most likely indicated by jugular distention and a 4-lb weight gain in 24 hours?

Ascites
Right ventricular congestive heart failure
Varicose veins
Diabetes mellitus

The correct answer is: Right ventricular congestive heart failure

The presence of jugular distention along with a significant weight gain of 4 pounds in just 24 hours typically indicates a condition involving fluid retention, particularly related to heart function. Right ventricular congestive heart failure is characterized by the heart's inability to effectively pump blood, leading to increased pressure in the venous system. This results in symptoms such as jugular venous distension and fluid accumulation in various parts of the body. When the right side of the heart fails, blood can back up in the systemic venous circulation, causing distension of the jugular veins. Additionally, the rapid weight gain in such a short time suggests an excess buildup of fluid, which reinforces the diagnosis of congestive heart failure. In this case, the combination of jugular distention and acute weight gain is highly indicative of right ventricular congestion rather than the other options presented, which do not typically manifest these specific signs together.