Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam

Which of the following factors helps identify clients at risk for a cardiac event?

1. Use of tobacco in any form

2. Exposure to environmental toxins

3. Family history of cardiac disease

4. Hypertension

The correct answer is: Use of tobacco in any form

Identifying clients at risk for a cardiac event involves recognizing various factors that contribute to cardiovascular health. One significant factor is the use of tobacco in any form, which is known to have a profound negative impact on cardiovascular health. Tobacco use causes vascular damage, elevates blood pressure, increases heart rate, and promotes the development of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries). These changes collectively heighten the risk of heart attacks and other cardiac events. In this context, while other factors mentioned, such as exposure to environmental toxins, family history of cardiac disease, and hypertension, are also relevant to assessing cardiac risk, the direct and well-established relationship between tobacco use and heart disease makes it a prominent risk factor. Tobacco not only adversely affects the cardiovascular system, but it is also a modifiable risk factor, meaning that cessation can significantly improve a person's heart health.