Certified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional (CCRP) Practice Test 2025 – Complete All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

The presence of frothy pink or white sputum is typically associated with congestive heart failure (CHF). This occurs due to pulmonary edema, which is a common complication in patients with CHF. When the heart is unable to pump effectively, fluid can back up into the lungs, leading to increased pressure in the pulmonary capillaries. As this pressure rises, fluid leaks into the alveoli, mixing with air, and resulting in the formation of frothy sputum.

In contrast, pneumonia tends to produce sputum that is generally purulent or rusty-colored, depending on the bacteria involved, and does not typically present as frothy. Chronic cough may lead to sputum production, but this is usually more mucus-like rather than frothy. Asthma can cause coughing and sputum production as well, but the sputum is generally not described as frothy and tends to be more thick or mucoid. Therefore, the association of frothy pink or white sputum is a hallmark sign of congestive heart failure, highlighting its significance in recognizing this serious cardiac condition.