Which of the following patients would the nurse identify as being at risk for de

1,2,3 -- Cor pulmonale is an alteration in the structure and function of the right ventricle caused by a primary disorder of the respiratory system or a blood disorder. Primary disorders of the respiratory system include pulmonary embolism, interstitial lung disease, COPD, and primary pulmonary hypertension. Blood disorders leading to cor pulmonale include polycythemia vera, sickle cell disease and macro hemoglobinemia. Right ventricular disease caused by a primary abnormality of the left ventricle is not considered cor pulmonale. Although DVTs may lead to PEs and eventually right-sided heart failure, there is no direct correlation.