Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What condition could lead to the development of ascites?

1. Congestive heart failure

2. Aortic dissection

3. Hypertensive crisis

4. Pneumonia

The correct answer is: Congestive heart failure

Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, which can occur as a result of several underlying medical conditions. One of the primary causes of ascites is congestive heart failure. When the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, it can lead to increased pressure in the veins, particularly in the liver and the surrounding tissues. This elevated pressure causes fluid to leak out of the blood vessels into the abdominal cavity, resulting in the accumulation characteristic of ascites. In contrast, the other conditions listed do not typically lead to the development of ascites. Aortic dissection mainly affects the aorta and may lead to severe pain and internal bleeding, but does not directly cause fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity. A hypertensive crisis involves an acute increase in blood pressure, which can lead to various complications, but it is not a direct cause of ascites. Lastly, pneumonia is a respiratory condition that primarily causes fluid accumulation in the lungs (pleural effusion) rather than in the abdominal cavity. Thus, congestive heart failure is the recognized condition that can lead to the development of ascites.