Complex Care Exam #1 With Complete Solutions., Exams of Nursing

Download Complex Care Exam #1 With Complete Solutions. and more Exams Nursing in PDF only on Docsity! Complex Care Exam #1 With Complete Solutions. A patient is admitted to the emergency department after sustaining abdominal injuries and a broken femur from a motor vehicle accident. The patient is pale, diaphoretic, and is not talking coherently. Vital signs upon admission are temperature 98 F (36 C), heart rate 130 beats/minute, respiratory rate 34 breaths/minute, blood pressure 50/40 mmHg. The healthcare provider suspects which type of shock? a.) Hypovolemic b.) Cardiogenic c.) Neurogenic d.) Distributive Answer - a.) Hypovolemic The healthcare provider is caring for a patient with a diagnosis of hemorrhagic pancreatitis. The patient's central venous pressure (CVP) reading is 2, blood pressure is 90/50 mmHg, lung sounds are clear, and jugular veins are flat. Which of these actions is most appropriate for the nurse to take? a.) Slow the IV infusion rate b.) Administer dopamine c.) No interventions are needed at this time d.) Increase the IV infusion rate Answer - d.) Increase the IV infusion rate A patient who has pericarditis related to radiation therapy, becomes dyspneic, and has a rapid, weak pulse. Heart sounds are muffled, and a 12 mmHg drop in blood pressure is noted on inspiration. The healthcare provider's interventions are aimed at preventing which type of shock? a.) Distributive b.) Neurogenic c.) Obstructive d.) Cardiogenic Answer - c.) Obstructive Rationale: Obstructive shock can be caused by anything that impedes the heart's ability to contract and pump blood around the body, as with cardiac tamponade. The healthcare provider is caring for a patient who has septic shock. Which of these should the healthcare provider administer to the patient first? a.) Antibiotics to treat the underlying infection. b.) Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. c.) IV fluids to increase intravascular volume. d.) Vasopressors to increase blood pressure. Answer - c.) IV fluids to increase intravascular volume. a.) Replace fluid, and promote urine output. b.) Draw water into cells. c.) Draw water from cells to blood vessels. d.) Maintain vascular volume. Answer - a.) Replace fluid, and promote urine output. Nursing assessment of a client receiving serum albumin for treatment of shock should include: a.) Assessing lung sounds. b.) Monitoring glucose. c.) Monitoring the potassium level. d.) Monitoring hemoglobin and hematocrit. Answer - a.) Assessing lung sounds. Rationale: Colloids pull fluid into vascular space. Circulatory overload could occur. The nurse should assess the client for symptoms of heart failure. Dobutamine (Dobutrex) is used to treat a client experiencing cardiogenic shock. Nursing intervention includes: a.) Monitoring for fluid overload. b.) Monitoring for cardiac dysrhythmias. c.) Monitoring respiratory status. d.) Monitoring for hypotension. Answer - b.) Monitoring for cardiac dysrhythmias. Rationale: Dobutamine is beneficial in cases where shock is caused by heart failure. The drug increases contractility, and has the potential to cause dysrhythmias. An intensive care nurse, is assessing a patient with suspected sepsis. Which predisposing factors would expect to be found in the patient with septic shock? a.) A 45 year old client with a history of renal insufficiency. b.) A client age 65, with a history of cancer who is recovering from an abdominal peritoneal resection. c.) A 27 year old with pyelonephritis responding to treatment with an antibiotic. d.) A 50 year old with community acquired tuberculosis. Answer - b.) A client age 65, with a history of cancer who is recovering from an abdominal peritoneal resection. The acute care nurse is planning an inservice to present evidence based practices to address the increasing incidence in ventilator associated pneumonia. Interventions included in this protocol include: a.) Avoid the use of agents that increase the pH of the stomach as these blocks their antibacterial properties. b.) Maintaining the head of the bed at 30 degrees and strict hand washing before and after any patient contact. b.) In the early phase, the patient may demonstrate manifestations of thrombosis and microemboli. c.) Though a coagulopathy is present, excessive blood loss rarely results in hemorrhagic shock. d.) The most critical intervention for DIC is the early identification and treatment of the underlying disorder. Answer - c.) Though a coagulopathy is present, excessive blood loss rarely results in hemorrhagic shock. A patient is treated in the emergency department (ED) for shock of unknown etiology. The first action by the nurse should be to a.) check the blood pressure. b.) obtain an oxygen saturation. c.) attach a cardiac monitor. d.) check level of consciousness. Answer - b.) obtain an oxygen saturation. Rationale: The initial actions of the nurse are focused on the ABCs, and assessing the airway and ventilation is necessary. The other assessments should be accomplished as rapidly as possible after the oxygen saturation is determined and addressed. A patient with hypovolemic shock has a urinary output of 15 ml/hr. The nurse understands that the compensatory physiologic mechanism that leads to altered urinary output is a.) activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), causing vasodilation of the renal arteries. b.) stimulation of cardiac -adrenergic receptors, leading to increased cardiac output. c.) release of aldosterone and antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which cause sodium and water retention. d.) movement of interstitial fluid to the intravascular space, increasing renal blood flow. Answer - c.) release of aldosterone and antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which cause sodium and water retention. Rationale: The release of aldosterone and ADH lead to the decrease in urine output by increasing the reabsorption of sodium and water in the renal tubules. SNS stimulation leads to renal artery vasoconstriction. - Receptor stimulation does increase cardiac output, but this would improve urine output. During shock, fluid leaks from the intravascular space into the interstitial space. While caring for a seriously ill patient, the nurse determines that the patient may be in the compensatory stage of shock on finding a.) cold, mottled extremities. b.) restlessness and apprehension. c.) a heart rate of 120 and cool, clammy skin. d.) systolic BP less than 90 mm Hg. Answer - b.) restlessness and apprehension. Rationale: Restlessness and apprehension are typical during the compensatory stage of shock. Cold, mottled extremities, cool and clammy skin, and a systolic BP less than 90 are associated with the progressive and refractory stages. When assessing the hemodynamic information for a newly admitted patient in shock of unknown etiology, the nurse will anticipate administration of large volumes of crystalloids when the a.) cardiac output is increased and the central venous pressure (CVP) is low. b.) pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) is increased, and the urine output is low. c.) heart rate is decreased, and the systemic vascular resistance is low. d.) cardiac output is decreased and the PAWP is high. Answer - a.) cardiac output is increased and the central venous pressure (CVP) is low. Rationale: A high cardiac output and low CVP suggest septic shock, and massive fluid replacement is indicated. Increased PAWP indicates that the patient has excessive fluid volume (and suggests cardiogenic shock), and diuresis is indicated. Bradycardia and a low systemic vascular resistance (SVR) suggest neurogenic shock, and fluids should be infused cautiously. A patient who has been involved in a motor-vehicle crash is admitted to the ED with cool, clammy skin, tachycardia, and hypotension. All of these orders are written. Which one will the nurse act on first? a.) Insert two 14-gauge IV catheters. b.) Administer oxygen at 100% per non- rebreather mask. c.) Place the patient on continuous cardiac monitor. d.) Draw blood to type and crossmatch for transfusions. Answer - b.) Administer oxygen at 100% per non-rebreather mask. Rationale: The first priority in the initial management of shock is maintenance of the airway and ventilation. Cardiac monitoring, insertion of IV catheters, and obtaining blood for transfusions should also be rapidly accomplished, but only after actions to maximize oxygen delivery have been implemented. A patient with massive trauma and possible spinal cord injury is admitted to the ED. The nurse suspects that the patient may be experiencing neurogenic shock in addition to hypovolemic shock, based on the finding of a.) cool, clammy skin. b.) shortness of breath. c.) heart rate of 48 beats/min d.) BP of 82/40 mm Hg. Answer - c.) heart rate of 48 beats/min Rationale: The patient who has received chemotherapy is immune compromised, and placing the patient in a private room will decrease the exposure to other patients and reduce infection/sepsis risk. Administration of medications through the central line increases the risk for infection and sepsis. There is no indication that the patient is neutropenic, and restricting the patient to cooked and processed foods is likely to decrease oral intake further and cause further malnutrition, a risk factor for sepsis and shock. Insertion of an NG tube is invasive and will not decrease the patient's nausea and vomiting. A patient with a myocardial infarction (MI) and cardiogenic shock has the following vital signs: BP 86/50, pulse 126, respirations 30. Hemodynamic monitoring reveals an elevated PAWP and decreased cardiac output. The nurse will anticipate: a.) administration of furosemide (Lasix) IV. b.) titration of an epinephrine (Adrenalin) drip. c.) administration of a normal saline bolus. d.) assisting with endotracheal intubation. Answer - a.) administration of furosemide (Lasix) IV. Rationale: The PAWP indicates that the patient's preload is elevated and furosemide is indicated to reduce the preload and improve cardiac output. Epinephrine would further increase myocardial oxygen demand and might extend the MI. The PAWP is already elevated, so normal saline boluses would be contraindicated. There is no indication that the patient requires endotracheal intubation. The triage nurse receives a call from a community member who is driving an unconscious friend with multiple injuries after a motorcycle accident to the hospital. The caller states that they will be arriving in 1 minute. In preparation for the patient's arrival, the nurse will obtain a.) a liter of lactated Ringer's solution. b.) 500 ml of 5% albumin. c. ) two 14-gauge IV catheters. d.) a retention catheter. Answer - c. ) two 14-gauge IV catheters. Rationale: A patient with multiple trauma may require fluid resuscitation to prevent or treat hypovolemic shock, so the nurse will anticipate the need for 2 large bore IV lines to administer normal saline. Lactated Ringer's solution should be used cautiously and will not be ordered until the patient had been assessed for possible liver abnormalities. Although colloids may sometimes be used for volume expansion, it is generally accepted that crystalloids should be used as the initial therapy for fluid resuscitation. A catheter would likely be ordered, but in the 1 minute that the nurse has to obtain supplies, the IV catheters would take priority. The nurse evaluates that fluid resuscitation for a 70 kg patient in shock is effective on finding that the patient's a.) urine output is 40 ml over the last hour. b.) hemoglobin is within normal limits. c.) CVP has decreased. d.) mean arterial pressure (MAP) is 65 mm Hg. Answer - a.) urine output is 40 ml over the last hour. Rationale: Assessment of end-organ perfusion, such as an adequate urine output, is the best indicator that fluid resuscitation has been successful. The hemoglobin level is not useful in determining whether fluid administration has been effective unless the patient is bleeding and receiving blood. A decrease in CVP indicates that more fluid is needed. The MAP is at the low normal range, but does not clearly indicate that tissue perfusion is adequate. The nurse is caring for a patient admitted with a urinary tract infection and sepsis. Which information obtained in the assessment indicates a need for a change in therapy? a.) The patient is restless and anxious. b.) The patient has a heart rate of 134. c.) The patient has hypotonic bowel sounds. d.) The patient has a temperature of 94.1° F. Answer - d.) The patient has a temperature of 94.1° F. Rationale: Hypothermia is an indication that the patient is in the progressive stage of shock. The other data are consistent with compensated shock. A patient outcome that is appropriate for the patient in shock who has a nursing diagnosis of decreased cardiac output related to relative hypovolemia is a.) urine output of 0.5 ml/kg/hr. b.) decreased peripheral edema. c.) decreased CVP. d.) oxygen saturation 90% or more. Answer - a.) urine output of 0.5 ml/kg/hr. Rationale: A urine output of 0.5 ml/kg/hr indicates adequate renal perfusion, which is a good indicator of cardiac output. The patient may continue to have peripheral edema because fluid infusions may be needed despite third- spacing of fluids in relative hypovolemia. Decreased central venous pressure (CVP) for a patient with relative hypovolemia indicates that additional fluid infusion is necessary. An oxygen saturation of 90% will not necessarily indicate that cardiac output has improved. A patient in compensated septic shock has hemodynamic monitoring with a pulmonary artery catheter and an arterial catheter. Which information c.Administer hydrocortisone (Solu-Cortef) 100 mg IV. d. Titrate norepinephrine (Levophed) to keep systolic BP >90 mm Hg. ANS: A The patient's elevated pulmonary artery wedge pressure indicates volume excess. A saline infusion at 250 mL/hr will exacerbate the volume excess. The other actions are appropriate for the patient. Answer - A nurse is caring for a patient with shock of unknown etiology whose hemodynamic monitoring indicates BP 92/54, pulse 64, and an elevated pulmonary artery wedge pressure. Which collaborative intervention ordered by the health care provider should the nurse question? a. Infuse normal saline at 250 mL/hr. b. Keep head of bed elevated to 30 degrees. c. Hold nitroprusside (Nipride) if systolic BP <90 mm Hg. d. Titrate dobutamine (Dobutrex) to keep systolic BP >90 mm Hg. ANS: C Neurogenic shock is characterized by hypotension and bradycardia. The other findings would be more consistent with other types of shock Answer - A 19-year-old patient with massive trauma and possible spinal cord injury is admitted to the emergency department (ED). Which assessment finding by the nurse will help confirm a diagnosis of neurogenic shock? a. Inspiratory crackles. b. Cool, clammy extremities. c.Apical heart rate 45 beats/min. d. Temperature 101.2° F (38.4° C). ANS: C Nitroprusside is an arterial vasodilator and will decrease the SVR and afterload, which will improve cardiac output. Changes in the D5/.9 NS and nitroglycerin infusions will not directly decrease SVR. Increasing the dopamine will tend to increase SVR. Answer - An older patient with cardiogenic shock is cool and clammy and hemodynamic monitoring indicates a high systemic vascular resistance (SVR). Which intervention should the nurse anticipate doing next? a. Increase the rate for the dopamine (Intropin) infusion. b. Decrease the rate for the nitroglycerin (Tridil) infusion. c. Increase the rate for the sodium nitroprusside (Nipride) infusion. d. Decrease the rate for the 5% dextrose in normal saline (D5/.9 NS) infusion. ANS: B When fluid resuscitation is unsuccessful, vasopressor drugs are administered to increase the systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and blood pressure, and improve tissue perfusion. Nitroglycerin would decrease the preload and further drop cardiac output and BP. Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) is considered if blood pressure does not respond first to fluids and vasopressors. Nitroprusside is an arterial vasodilator and would further decrease SVR. Answer - After receiving 2 L of normal saline, the central venous pressure for a patient who has septic shock is 10 mm Hg, but the blood pressure is still 82/40 mm Hg. The nurse will anticipate an order for a. nitroglycerine (Tridil). b. norepinephrine (Levophed). c. sodium nitroprusside (Nipride). d. methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol). ANS: B d. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) is 72 mm Hg. ANS: B Since pulmonary congestion and dyspnea are characteristics of cardiogenic shock, the nurse should assess the breath sounds frequently. The head of the bed is usually elevated to decrease dyspnea in patients with cardiogenic shock. Elevated temperature and flushing or itching of the skin are not typical of cardiogenic shock. Answer - Which intervention will the nurse include in the plan of care for a patient who has cardiogenic shock? a. Check temperature every 2 hours. b. Monitor breath sounds frequently. c. Maintain patient in supine position. d. Assess skin for flushing and itching. ANS: A Adequate fluid administration is essential before administration of vasopressors to patients with hypovolemic shock. The patient's low central venous pressure indicates a need for more volume replacement. The other patient data are not contraindications to norepinephrine administration. Answer - Norepinephrine (Levophed) has been prescribed for a patient who was admitted with dehydration and hypotension. Which patient data indicate that the nurse should consult with the health care provider before starting the norepinephrine? a. The patient's central venous pressure is 3 mm Hg. b. The patient is in sinus tachycardia at 120 beats/min. c. The patient is receiving low dose dopamine (Intropin). d. The patient has had no urine output since being admitted. ANS: C Warm, pink, and dry skin indicates that perfusion to tissues is improved. Since nitroprusside is a vasodilator, the blood pressure may be low even if the medication is effective. Absence of a heart murmur and a decrease in troponin level are not indicators of improvement in shock. Answer - A nurse is assessing a patient who is receiving a nitroprusside (Nipride) infusion to treat cardiogenic shock. Which finding indicates that the medication is effective? a. No new heart murmurs b. Decreased troponin level c. Warm, pink, and dry skin d. Blood pressure 92/40 mm Hg ANS: D Because the airway edema that is associated with anaphylaxis can affect airway and breathing, the oxygen saturation is the most critical assessment. Improvements in the other assessments will also be expected with effective treatment of anaphylactic shock. Answer - Which assessment information is most important for the nurse to obtain to evaluate whether treatment of a patient with anaphylactic shock has been effective? a. Heart rate b. Orientation c. Blood pressure d. Oxygen saturation ANS: A The elevated serum creatinine level indicates that the patient has renal failure as well as heart failure. The crackles, chest pressure, and cool extremities are all consistent with the patient's diagnosis of cardiogenic shock. Answer - Which data collected by the nurse caring for a patient who has cardiogenic shock indicate that the patient may be developing multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS)? a. The patient's serum creatinine level is elevated. b.The patient complains of intermittent chest pressure. c. The patient's extremities are cool and pulses are weak. d. The patient has bilateral crackles throughout lung fields. ANS: A Because of the low systemic vascular resistance (SVR) associated with septic shock, fluid resuscitation is the initial therapy. The other actions also are appropriate, and should be initiated quickly as well. Answer - A patient with septic shock has a BP of 70/46 mm Hg, pulse 136, respirations 32, temperature 104° F, and blood glucose 246 mg/dL. Which intervention ordered by the health care provider should the nurse implement first? a. Give normal saline IV at 500 mL/hr. b. Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg rectally. c. Start insulin drip to maintain blood glucose at 110 to 150 mg/dL. d. Start norepinephrine (Levophed) to keep systolic blood pressure >90 mm Hg. ANS: D Patients with neurogenic shock may have poikilothermia. The room temperature should be kept warm to avoid hypothermia. The other actions by the new RN are appropriate. Answer - When the nurse educator is evaluating the skills of a new registered nurse (RN) caring for patients experiencing shock, which action by the new RN indicates a need for more education? a. Placing the pulse oximeter on the ear for a patient with septic shock b. Keeping the head of the bed flat for a patient with hypovolemic shock c. Increasing the nitroprusside (Nipride) infusion rate for a patient with a high SVR d. Maintaining the room temperature at 66° to 68° F for a patient with neurogenic shock ANS: B Because patients in the early stage of septic shock have warm and dry skin, the patient's cool and clammy skin indicates that shock is progressing. The other information will also be reported, but does not indicate deterioration of the patient's status. Answer - The nurse is caring for a patient who has septic shock. Which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider? a. Blood pressure (BP) 92/56 mm Hg b. Skin cool and clammy c. Oxygen saturation 92% d. Heart rate 118 beats/minute b. The patient's extremities are warm and dry. c. The patient's IV infusion site is cool and pale. d. The patient's urine output is 28 mL over the last hour. ANS: B Epinephrine rapidly causes peripheral vasoconstriction, dilates the bronchi, and blocks the effects of histamine and reverses the vasodilation, bronchoconstriction, and histamine release that cause the symptoms of anaphylaxis. The other interventions are also appropriate but would not be the first ones completed. Answer - The following interventions are ordered by the health care provider for a patient who has respiratory distress and syncope after eating strawberries. Which will the nurse complete first? a. Start a normal saline infusion. b. Give epinephrine (Adrenalin). c. Start continuous ECG monitoring. d. Give diphenhydramine (Benadryl). ANS: C Because vasopressin is a potent vasoconstrictor, it may decrease coronary artery perfusion. The other information is consistent with the patient's diagnosis and should be reported to the health care provider but does not indicate a need for a change in therapy. Answer - Which finding about a patient who is receiving vasopressin (Pitressin) to treat septic shock is most important for the nurse to communicate to the health care provider? a. The patient's urine output is 18 mL/hr. b.The patient's heart rate is 110 beats/minute. c. The patient is complaining of chest pain. d. The patient's peripheral pulses are weak. ANS: B Antibiotics should be administered within the first hour for patients who have sepsis or suspected sepsis in order to prevent progression to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and septic shock. The data on the other patients indicate that they are more stable. Crackles heard only at the lung bases do not require immediate intervention in a patient who has had a myocardial infarction. Mild bradycardia does not usually require atropine in patients who have a spinal cord injury. The findings for the patient admitted with anaphylaxis indicate resolution of bronchospasm and hypotension. Answer - After change-of-shift report in the progressive care unit, who should the nurse care for first? a. Patient who had an inferior myocardial infarction 2 days ago and has crackles in the lung bases b. Patient with suspected urosepsis who has new orders for urine and blood cultures and antibiotics c. Patient who had a T5 spinal cord injury 1 week ago and currently has a heart rate of 54 beats/minute d. Patient admitted with anaphylaxis 3 hours ago who now has clear lung sounds and a blood pressure of 108/58 mm Hg ANS: A, B, D, E All of the actions are appropriate except to give large volumes of lactated Ringer's solution. The patient with neurogenic shock usually has a normal blood volume, and it is important not to volume overload the patient. In addition, lactated Ringer's solution is used cautiously in all shock situations because the failing liver cannot Fluid shifts from vascular to intra-abdominal may cause decreased circulating blood volume and poor tissue perfusion. Volume depletion is only one reason why a person may require a blood transfusion; anemia is another. The client receiving a blood transfusion does not have as high a risk as the client with severe ascites. Myocardial infarction results in tissue necrosis in the heart muscle; no blood or fluid losses occur. Owing to excess antidiuretic hormone secretion, the client with SIADH will retain fluid and therefore is not at risk for hypovolemic shock. The nurse is caring for a client in the refractory stage of cardiogenic shock. Which intervention does the nurse consider? A. Admission to rehabilitation hospital for ambulatory retraining B. Collaboration with home care agency for return to home C. Discussion with family and provider regarding palliative care D. Enrollment in a cardiac transplantation program Answer - C. Discussion with family and provider regarding palliative care In this irreversible phase, therapy is not effective in saving the client's life, even if the cause of shock is corrected and mean arterial pressure temporarily returns to normal. A discussion on palliative care should be considered. Rehabilitation or returning home is unlikely. The client with sustained tissue hypoxia is not a candidate for organ transplantation. A client with septic shock has been started on dopamine (Intropin) at 12 mcg/kg/min. Which response indicates a positive outcome? A. Hourly urine output 10 to 12 mL/hr B. Blood pressure 90/60 mm Hg and mean arterial pressure 70 mm Hg C. Blood glucose 245 mg/dL D. Serum creatinine 3.6 mg/dL Answer - B. Blood pressure 90/60 mm Hg and mean arterial pressure 70 mm Hg Dopamine improves blood flow by increasing peripheral resistance, which increases blood pressure—a positive response in this case. Urine output less than 30 mL/hr or 0.5 mL/kg/hr and elevations in serum creatinine indicate poor tissue perfusion to the kidney and are a negative consequence of shock, not a positive response. Although a blood glucose of 245 mg/dL is an abnormal finding, dopamine increases blood pressure and myocardial contractility, not glucose levels. The client with which problem is at highest risk for hypovolemic shock? A. Esophageal varices B. Kidney failure C. Arthritis and daily acetaminophen use D. Kidney stone Answer - A. Esophageal varices Esophageal varices are caused by portal hypertension; the portal vessels are under high pressure and are prone to rupture, causing massive upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding and hypovolemic shock. As the kidneys fail, fluid is typically retained, causing fluid volume excess, not hypovolemia. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as naproxen and ibuprofen, not acetaminophen, predispose the client to gastrointestinal bleeding and hypovolemia. Although a kidney stone may cause hematuria, there is not generally massive blood loss or hypovolemia. The client with which laboratory result is at risk for hemorrhagic shock? A. International normalized ratio (INR) 7.9 B. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) 12.5 seconds C. Platelets 170,000/mm3 D. Hemoglobin 8.2 g/dL Answer - A. International normalized ratio (INR) 7.9 Prolonged INR indicates that blood takes longer than normal to clot; this client is at risk for bleeding. PTT of 12.5 seconds and a platelet value of 170,000/mm3 are both normal and pose no risk for bleeding. Although a hemoglobin of 8.2 g/dL is low, the client could have severe iron deficiency or could have received medication affecting the bone marrow. How does the nurse recognize that a positive outcome has occurred when administering plasma protein fraction (Plasmanate)? A. Urine output 20 to 30 mL/hr for the last 4 hours B. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) 70 mm Hg C. Albumin 3.5 g/dL D. Hemoglobin 7.6 g/dL Answer - B. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) 70 mm Hg Plasmanate expands the blood volume and helps maintain MAP greater than 65 mm Hg, which is a desired outcome in shock. Urine output should be 0.5 mL/kg/hr, or greater than 30 mL/hr. Albumin levels reflect nutritional status, which may be poor in shock states due to an increased need for calories. Plasmanate expands blood volume by exerting increasing colloid osmotic pressure in the bloodstream, pulling fluid into the vascular space; this does not improve an abnormal hemoglobin. What typical sign/symptom indicates the early stage of septic shock? A. Pallor and cool skin B. Blood pressure 84/50 mm Hg C. Tachypnea and tachycardia D. Respiratory acidosis Answer - C. Tachypnea and tachycardia Signs of systemic inflammatory response syndrome, which precedes sepsis, include rapid respiratory rate, leukocytosis, and tachycardia. In the early stage of septic shock, the client is usually warm and febrile. Hypotension does not develop until later in septic shock due to compensatory mechanisms. Respiratory alkalosis occurs early in shock because of an increased respiratory rate. Which problem places a person at highest risk for septic shock? C. Increase the rate of intravenous fluids. D. Reassess vital signs using different equipment. Answer - A. Compare these vital signs with the last several readings. Vital sign trends must be taken into consideration; a BP of 90/60 mm Hg may be normal for this client. Calling the surgeon is not necessary at this point, and increasing IV fluids is not indicated. The same equipment should be used when vital signs are taken postoperatively. Which laboratory result is seen in late sepsis? A. Decreased serum lactate B. Decreased segmented neutrophil count C. Increased numbers of monocytes D. Increased platelet count Answer - B. Decreased segmented neutrophil count A decreased segmented neutrophil count is indicative of late sepsis. Serum lactate is increased in late sepsis. Monocytosis is usually seen in diseases such as tuberculosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. An increased platelet count does not indicate sepsis; late in sepsis, platelets may decrease due to consumptive coagulopathy. A client is admitted to the hospital with two of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome variables: temperature of 95° F (35° C) and high white blood cell count. Which intervention from the sepsis resuscitation bundle does the nurse initiate? A. Broad-spectrum antibiotics B. Blood transfusion C. Cooling baths D. NPO status Answer - A. Broad-spectrum antibiotics Broad-spectrum antibiotics must be initiated within 1 hour of establishing diagnosis. A blood transfusion is indicated for low red blood cell count or low hemoglobin and hematocrit; transfusion is not part of the sepsis resuscitation bundle. Cooling baths are not indicated because the client is hypothermic, nor is this part of the sepsis resuscitation bundle. NPO status is not indicated for this client, nor is it part of the sepsis resuscitation bundle. The nurse plans to administer an antibiotic to a client newly admitted with septic shock. What action does the nurse take first? A. Administer the antibiotic immediately. B. Ensure that blood cultures were drawn. C. Obtain signature for informed consent. D. Take the client's vital signs. Answer - B. Ensure that blood cultures were drawn. Cultures must be taken to identify the organism for more targeted antibiotic treatment before antibiotics are administered. Antibiotics are not administered until after all cultures are taken. A signed consent is not needed for medication administration. Monitoring the client's vital signs is important, but the antibiotic must be administered within 1 to 3 hours; timing is essential. A client with hypovolemic shock has these vital signs: temperature 97.9° F; pulse 122 beats/min; blood pressure 86/48 mm Hg; respirations 24 breaths/min; urine C. Assess level of consciousness and pupil reaction to light. D. Check the airway and respiratory status. Answer - D. Check the airway and respiratory status. When caring for any client, determining airway and respiratory status is the priority. The airway takes priority over obtaining IV access, applying the blood pressure cuff, and assessing for changes in the client's mental status. The nurse reviews the medical record of a client with hemorrhagic shock, which contains the following information: Pulse 140 beats/min and thready, ABG respiratory acidosis, Blood pressure 60/40 mm Hg, Lactate level 7 mOsm/L, Respirations 40/min and shallow. All of these provider prescriptions are given for the client. Which does the nurse carry out first? A. Notify anesthesia for endotracheal intubation. B. Give Plasmanate 1 unit now. C. Give normal saline solution 250 mL/hr. D. Type and crossmatch for 4 units of packed red blood cells (PRBCs). Answer - A. Notify anesthesia for endotracheal intubation. Establishing an airway is the priority in all emergency situations. Although administering Plasmanate and normal saline, and typing and crossmatching for 4 units of PRBCs are important actions, airway always takes priority. Which clinical symptoms in a postoperative client indicate early sepsis with an excellent recovery rate if treated? A. Localized erythema and edema B. Low-grade fever and mild hypotension C. Low oxygen saturation rate and decreased cognition D. Reduced urinary output and increased respiratory rate Answer - B. Low-grade fever and mild hypotension Low-grade fever and mild hypotension indicate very early sepsis, but with treatment, the probability of recovery is high. Localized erythema and edema indicate local infection. A low oxygen saturation rate and decreased cognition indicate active (not early) sepsis. Reduced urinary output and increased respiratory rate indicate severe sepsis. A client recovering from an open reduction of the femur suddenly feels light-headed, with increased anxiety and agitation. Which key vital sign differentiates a pulmonary embolism from early sepsis? A. Temperature B. Pulse C. Respiration D. Blood pressure Answer - A. Temperature A sign of early sepsis is low-grade fever. Both early sepsis and thrombus may cause tachycardia, tachypnea, and hypotension. The client in shock has the following vital signs: T 99.8° F, P 132 beats/min, R 32 breaths/min, and BP 80/58 mm Hg. Calculate the pulse pressure. Answer - 22 mm Hg Pulse pressure is the difference between the systolic and diastolic pressures: 80 (systolic) - 58 (diastolic) = 22 (pulse pressure) A client is exhibiting signs and symptoms of early shock. What is important for the nurse to do to support the psychosocial integrity of the client? (Select all that apply.) A. Ask family members to stay with the client. B. Call the health care provider. C. Increase IV and oxygen rates. D. Remain with the client. E. Reassure the client that everything is being done for him or her. Answer - A. Ask family members to stay with the client. D. Remain with the client. E. Reassure the client that everything is being done for him or her. Having a familiar person nearby may provide comfort to the client. The nurse should remain with the client who is demonstrating physiologic deterioration. Offering genuine reassurance supports the client who is anxious. The health care provider should be notified, and increasing IV and oxygen rates may be needed, but these actions do not support the client's psychosocial integrity. Which clients are at immediate risk for hypovolemic shock? (Select all that apply.) A. Unrestrained client in motor vehicle accident B. Construction worker C. Athlete D. Surgical intensive care client E. 85-year-old with gastrointestinal virus Answer - A. Unrestrained client in motor vehicle accident D. Surgical intensive care client E. 85-year-old with gastrointestinal virus The client who is unrestrained in a motor vehicle accident is prone to multiple trauma and bleeding. Surgical clients are at high risk for hypovolemic shock owing to fluid loss and hemorrhage. Older adult clients are prone to shock; a gastrointestinal virus results in fluid losses. Unless injured or working in excessive heat, the construction worker and the athlete are not at risk for hypovolemic shock; they may be at risk for dehydration. While monitoring a client's pulmonary artery pressure the nurse sees a distinct notch in the waveform. What should the nurse do about this finding? -Contact the physician. -Take another measurement. -Nothing. This is a normal finding. Decreased values of venous oxygen saturation indicate that more oxygen is being extracted for use at the tissue level. The nurse knows that zero and calibration should be done how frequently to assure accurate readings by pressure monitoring devices? Only during system set-up. At least once following initial set-up. At least every day. Whenever readings are questioned. Answer - whenever readings are questions When the nurse suspects that pressure waveforms are underdamped, it is appropriate to: fast flush to establish catheter patency. remove air bubbles in the pressure tubing. assess for blood in the pressure tubing. remove excess stopcocks on the tubing. Answer - remove excess stopcocks on tubing The nurse caring for a patient with an arterial line knows that a sterile cap which is removed for any reason: should be replaced with a fresh sterile cap. may be replaced after completion of the task. should be carefully handled to avoid contamination. may be piggy backed onto another cap temporarily. Answer - should be replaced with a fresh sterile cap The critical care nurse is describing the process of insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter to a colleague. The nurse demonstrates good understanding of the procedure by discussing the potential for stimulation of dysrhythmia during: initial introduction of the catheter into the central vessel. advancement of the catheter through the triscuspid valve. passing of the catheter through the right ventricle. inflation of the balloon upon reaching the pulmonary artery. Answer - passing of the catheter through the RV What is the most common cause of abdominal aortic aneurysm? a.Atherosclerosis b. DM c. HPN d. Syphilis Answer - Atherosclerosis Plaques build up on the wall of the vessel and weaken it, causing an aneurysm. In which of the following areas is an abdominal aortic aneurysm most commonly located? a. Distal to the iliac arteries b. Distal to the renal arteries c.Adjacent to the aortic branch d. Proximal to the renal arteries` Answer - Distal to the renal arteries A pulsating abdominal mass usually indicates which of the following conditions? a.Abdominal aortic aneurysm b. Enlarged spleen c. Gastic distention d. Gastritis Answer - AAA What is the most common symptom in a client with abdominal aortic aneurysm? a.Abdominal pain b. Diaphoresis c. Headache d. Upper back pain Answer - Abdominal pain lower not upper back pain Which of the following symptoms usually signifies rapid expansion and impending rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm? a.Abdominal pain b.Absent pedal pulses c.Angina d. Lower back pain Answer - Lower back pain Which of the following complications is of greatest concern when caring for a preoperative abdominal aneurysm client? a. HPN b.Aneurysm rupture c. Cardiac arrythmias d. Diminished pedal pulses Answer - aneurysm rupture When assessing a client for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which area of the abdomen is most commonly palpated? a. Right upper quadrant b. Directly over the umbilicus c. Middle lower abdomen to the left of the midline d. Midline lower abdomen to the right of the midline Answer - middle lower abdomen to the left of the midline Which of the following conditions is linked to more than 50% of clients with abdominal aortic aneurysms? a. DM b. HTN c. PVD d. Syphilis Answer - HTN continuous pressure on the vessel walls from HTN causes the walls to weaken Which of the following sounds is distinctly heard on auscultation over the abdominal region of an abdominal aortic aneurysm client? a. Bruit b. Crackles c. Dullness d. Friction rubs Answer - bruit A 76 year old man enters the ER with complaints of back pain and feeling fatigued. Upon examination, his blood pressure is 190/100, pulse is 118, and hematocrit and hemoglobin are both low. The nurse palpates the abdomen which is soft, non-tender and auscultates an abdominal pulse. The most likely diagnosis is: A. Buerger's disease B. CHF C. Secondary hypertension D. Aneurysm Answer - aneurysm Which of the following are most likely to be early signs of cardiac problems in older persons? (Select all that apply.) Mental status changes Agitation Frequent falls Sudden changes in GI function Answer - Mental status changes Agitation Frequent falls Rationale: Many cardiovascular functions are complicated in that they involve many other systems. Mental status changes, agitation, and falls can be early signs of cardiac problems in the older person. Changes in function in the GI system are not typical signs of a cardiac problem. A patient has been diagnosed with Right-Sided Congestive Heart Failure, and is confused about return of deoxygenated blood from the tissue. To clarify the confusion, which chamber of the heart receives blood from systemic circulation? Left atrium Right atrium Right ventricle Left ventricle Answer - Right atrium Rationale: The right atrium is a thin-walled structure that receives deoxygenated blood from all the peripheral tissues by way of the superior and inferior vena cava and from the heart muscle by way of the coronary sinus. It is important that the nurse be knowledgeable about cardiac output in order to: Evaluate blood flow to peripheral tissues. Determine the electrical activity of the myocardium. Provide information on the immediate need for oxygen. Implement nutritional changes. Answer - Evaluate blood flow to peripheral tissues. Rationale: Blood flow to the tissues is measured clinically as the cardiac output, and assists to predict tissue perfusion. Electrical activity is evaluated more effectively by EKG. While the cardiac output is important for perfusion and oxygenation of tissues, the oxygen saturation would provide more valuable information. Nutritional changes would be targeted to sodium and would depend on symptoms of disease. Integrated Process: Nursing Process; Planning Cognitive Level: Evaluation NCLEX-RN Test Plan: Health Promotion and Maintenance Pulmonary embolus Rationale: Herpes zoster (shingles) manifests as a vesicular rash along a dermatome, not chronic ischemic pain. Integrated Process: Nursing Process; Evaluation Cognitive Level: Evaluation NCLEX-RN Test Plan: Physiological Integrity; Physiological Adaptation Rationale: Herpes zoster (shingles) manifests as a vesicular rash along a dermatome, not chronic ischemic pain. Older clients experiencing anginal pain with complaints of fatigue or weakness usually are medicated with which of the following types of medication? Sublingual nitroglycerin Cardiac glycosides HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors Morphine sulfate Answer - Sublingual nitroglycerin Rationale: Angina frequently is managed with sublingual nitroglycerin, which causes vasodilation and increases blood flow to the coronary arteries. Cardiac glycosides are used to treat heart failure, and morphine is used to treat myocardial infarction. The HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are used for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following diagnostic studies most likely would confirm a myocardial infarction? White blood cell count (WBC) Troponin T levels Answer - Troponin T levels Rationale: CK-MB elevates 4-6 hours after tissue necrosis. Troponin levels rise 6-8 hours after the infarct (tissue necrosis) but also can occur with other types of tissue damage. Myoglobin also elevates, but to a lesser degree. WBC levels elevate with an inflammatory response. Troponin levels are more elevated than are the other cardiac enzymes, are more specific to cardiac tissue, and rise 6-8 hours after the infarct (tissue necrosis). A client with post-myocardial infarction develops acute bacterial pericarditis. Which of the following medications would the physician most likely prescribe as the primary drug? Ticarcillin disodium (Ticar) Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Ibuprofen (Motrin) Trioxsalen (Trisoralen) Answer - Ticarcillin disodium (Ticar) Rationale: Acute bacterial pericarditis is a complication that can occur post- myocardial infarction. Acute bacterial pericarditis usually requires antibiotics. NSAIDs usually are prescribed to relieve pain from the inflammatory process. If the NSAIDs Serum myoglobin level Creatinine do not relieve pain within 48 to 96 hours, corticosteroids are ordered. There is no mention of pain in the stem of the question. Trisoralen is used to repigment skin for persons with vitiligo. Which of the following diagnostic tests is preferred for evaluating heart valve function? Chest x-ray Duplex Doppler Echocardiogram Electrocardiogram Answer - Echocardiogram Rationale: The echocardiogram is the preferred test to evaluate heart valves, because it allows the visualization of the valves as they open and close. A chest x- ray will determine the size of the heart, the duplex measures blood flow through major arteries, and an electrocardiogram identifies electrical activity. An elderly client is being monitored for evidence of congestive heart failure. To detect early signs of heart failure, the nurse would instruct the certified nursing attendant (CNA) to do which of the following during care of the patient? Observe electrocardiogram readings and report deviations to the nurse. Assist the client with ambulation three times during the shift. Monitor vital signs every 15 minutes and report each reading to the nurse. Accurately weigh the patient, and report and record the readings. Answer - Accurately weigh the patient, and report and record the readings. Rationale: Due to fluid accumulation, an expanded blood volume can result when the heart fails. Body weight is a sensitive indicator of water and sodium retention, which will manifest itself with edema, dyspnea - especially nocturnal - and pedal edema. Patients also should be instructed about the need to perform daily weights upon discharge to monitor body water. It is not within the role of the CNA to monitor ECG readings, and ambulation is not an assessment. Vital signs every 15 minute are not necessary for this level of patient care. Which of the following drug classifications should the nurse question if prescribed for a person with congested heart failure (CHF)? Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor Beta-adrenergic blocker Alpha adrenergic antagonist Rosiglitazone (Avandia) Answer - Rosiglitazone (Avandia) Correct answer: Thiazolidinediones, like rosiglitazone (Avandia), are glucose- reducing drugs that are prescribed for persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus. ACE inhibitors, such as Lisinopril, are first-line drugs used to treat CHF. Propranolol (Inderal), a beta blocker, has remained one of the most widely used beta-blocking drugs. It blocks both beta1 and beta2 receptors in various organs, resulting in reduction of heart rate and the force of contraction, and suppresses impulse conduction through the AV node, all of which slows the progression of the disease following questions would best help a nurse to discriminate pain caused by a non- cardiac problem? "Have you ever had this pain before?" "Can you describe the pain to me?" "Does the pain get worse when you breathe in?" "Can you rate the pain on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the worst?" Answer - 3. Chest pain is assessed by using the standard pain assessment parameters. Options 1, 2, and 4 may or may not help discriminate the origin of pain. Pain of pleuropulmonary origin usually worsens on inspiration. 3)A client with myocardial infarction has been transferred from a coronary care unit to a general medical unit with cardiac monitoring via telemetry. A nurse plans to allow for which of the following client activities? Strict bed rest for 24 hours after transfer Bathroom privileges and self-care activities Unsupervised hallway ambulation with distances under 200 feet Ad lib activities because the client is monitored. Answer - 2. On transfer from the CCU, the client is allowed self-care activities and bathroom privileges. Supervised ambulation for brief distances are encouraged, with distances gradually increased (50, 100, 200 feet). 4)A nurse notes 2+ bilateral edema in the lower extremities of a client with myocardial infarction who was admitted 2 days ago. The nurse would plan to do which of the following next? Review the intake and output records for the last 2 days Change the time of diuretic administration from morning to evening Request a sodium restriction of 1 g/day from the physician. Order daily weights starting the following morning. Answer - 1. Edema, the accumulation of excess fluid in the interstitial spaces, can be measured by intake greater than output and by a sudden increase in weight. Diuretics should be given in the morning whenever possible to avoid nocturia. Strict sodium restrictions are reserved for clients with severe symptoms. 5)A client is wearing a continuous cardiac monitor, which begins to sound its alarm. A nurse sees no electrocardiogram complexes on the screen. The first action of the nurse is to: Check the client status and lead placement Press the recorder button on the electrocardiogram console. Call the physician Call a code blue Answer - 1. Sudden loss of electrocardiogram complexes indicates ventricular asystole or possible electrode displacement. Accurate assessment of the client and equipment is necessary to determine the cause and identify the appropriate intervention. 6)A nurse is assessing the blood pressure of a client diagnosed with primary hypertension. The nurse ensures accurate measurement by avoiding which of the following? Seating the client with arm bared, supported, and at heart level. Measuring the blood pressure after the client has been seated quietly for 5 minutes. Using a cuff with a rubber bladder that encircles at least 80% of the limb. Taking a blood pressure within 15 minutes after nicotine or caffeine ingestion. Answer - 4. BP should be taken with the client seated with the arm bared, positioned with support and at heart level. The client should sit with the legs on the floor, feet uncrossed, and not speak during the recording. The client should not have smoked tobacco or taken in caffeine in the 30 minutes preceding the measurement. The client should rest quietly for 5 minutes before the reading is taken. The cuff bladder should encircle at least 80% of the limb being measured. Gauges other than a mercury sphygmomanometer should be calibrated every 6 months to ensure accuracy. 7) IV heparin therapy is ordered for a client. While implementing this order, a nurse ensures that which of the following medications is available on the nursing unit? Vitamin K Aminocaporic acid Potassium chloride Protamine sulfate Answer - 4. The antidote to heparin is protamine sulfate and should be readily available for use if excessive bleeding or hemorrhage should occur. Vitamin K is an antidote for warfarin. 8)A client is at risk for pulmonary embolism and is on anticoagulant therapy with warfarin (Coumadin). The client's prothrombin time is 20 seconds, with a control of 11 seconds. The nurse assesses that this result is: The same as the client's own baseline level Lower than the needed therapeutic level Within the therapeutic range Higher than the therapeutic range Answer - 3. The therapeutic range for prothrombin time is 1.5 to 2 times the control for clients at risk for thrombus. Based on the client's control value, the therapeutic range for this individual would be 16.5 to 22 seconds. Therefore the result is within therapeutic range. 9)A client who has been receiving heparin therapy also is started on warfarin. The client asks a nurse why both medications are being administered. In formulating a response, the nurse incorporates the understanding that warfarin: Stimulates the breakdown of specific clotting factors by the liver, and it takes 2-3 days for this to exert an anticoagulant effect. Inhibits synthesis of specific clotting factors in the liver, and it takes 3-4 days for this medication to exert an anticoagulant effect. Call for the doctor Start an intravenous line Obtain a portable chest radiograph Draw blood for laboratory studies Answer - 2. Advanced cardiac life support recommends that at least one or two intravenous lines be inserted in one or both of the antecubital spaces. Calling the physician, obtaining a portable chest radiograph, and drawing blood are important but secondary to starting the intravenous line. 14)The nurse receives emergency laboratory results for a client with chest pain and immediately informs the physician. An increased myoglobin level suggests which of the following? Cancer Hypertension Liver disease Myocardial infarction Answer - 4. Detection of myoglobin is one diagnostic tool to determine whether myocardial damage has occurred. Myoglobin is generally detected about one hour after a heart attack is experienced and peaks within 4 to 6 hours after infarction (Remember, less than 90 mg/L is normal). 15)When teaching a client about propranolol hydrochloride, the nurse should base the information on the knowledge that propranolol hydrochloride: Blocks beta-adrenergic stimulation and thus causes decreased heart rate, myocardial contractility, and conduction. Increases norepinephrine secretion and thus decreases blood pressure and heart rate. Is a potent arterial and venous vasodilator that reduces peripheral vascular resistance and lowers blood pressure. Is an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor that reduces blood pressure by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Answer - 1. Propranolol hydrochloride is a beta-adrenergic blocking agent. Actions of propranolol hydrochloride include reducing heart rate, decreasing myocardial contractility, and slowing conduction. 16)The most important long-term goal for a client with hypertension would be to: Learn how to avoid stress Explore a job change or early retirement Make a commitment to long-term therapy Control high blood pressure Answer - 3. Compliance is the most critical element of hypertensive therapy. In most cases, hypertensive clients require lifelong treatment and their hypertension cannot be managed successfully without drug therapy. Stress management and weight management are important components of hypertension therapy, but the priority goal is related to compliance. 17)Hypertension is known as the silent killer. This phrase is associated with the fact that hypertension often goes undetected until symptoms of other system failures occur. This may occur in the form of: Cerebrovascular accident Liver disease Myocardial infarction Pulmonary disease Answer - 1. Hypertension is referred to as the silent killer for adults, because until the adult has significant damage to other systems, the hypertension may go undetected. CVA's can be related to long-term hypertension. Liver or pulmonary disease is generally not associated with hypertension. Myocardial infarction is generally related to coronary artery disease. 18)During the previous few months, a 56-year-old woman felt brief twinges of chest pain while working in her garden and has had frequent episodes of indigestion. She comes to the hospital after experiencing severe anterior chest pain while raking leaves. Her evaluation confirms a diagnosis of stable angina pectoris. After stabilization and treatment, the client is discharged from the hospital. At her follow-up appointment, she is discouraged because she is experiencing pain with increasing frequency. She states that she is visiting an invalid friend twice a week and now cannot walk up the second flight of steps to the friend's apartment without pain. Which of the following measures that the nurse could suggest would most likely help the client deal with this problem? Visit her friend earlier in the day. Rest for at least an hour before climbing the stairs. Take a nitroglycerin tablet before climbing the stairs. Lie down once she reaches the friend's apartment. Answer - 3. Nitroglycerin may be used prophylactically before stressful physical activities such as stair climbing to help the client remain pain free. Visiting her friend early in the day would have no impact on decreasing pain episodes. Resting before or after an activity is not as likely to help prevent an activity-related pain episode. 19)Which of the following symptoms should the nurse teach the client with unstable angina to report immediately to her physician? A change in the pattern of her pain Pain during sex Pain during an argument with her husband Pain during or after an activity such as lawnmowing Answer - 1. The client should report a change in the pattern of chest pain. It may indicate increasing severity of CAD. 20)The physician refers the client with unstable angina for a cardiac catherization. The nurse explains to the client that this procedure is being used in this specific case to: Open and dilate the blocked coronary arteries Assess the extent of arterial blockage Bypass obstructed vessels Assess the functional adequacy of the valves and heart muscle. Answer - 2. Cardiac catherization is done in clients with angina primarily to assess the extent and severity of the coronary artery blockage, A decision about medical management, angioplasty, or coronary artery bypass surgery will be based on the catherization results. 21)As an initial step in treating a client with angina, the physician prescribes nitroglycerin tablets, 0.3mg given sublingually. This drug's principle effects are produced by: Antispasmotic effect on the pericardium Causing an increased mycocardial oxygen demand Vasodilation of peripheral vasculature Improved conductivity in the myocardium Answer - 3. Nitroglycerin produces peripheral vasodilation, which reduces myocardial oxygen consumption and demand. Vasodilation in coronary arteries and collateral vessels may also increase blood flow to the ischemic areas of the heart. Nitroglycerin decreases myocardial oxygen demand. Nitroglycerin does not have an effect on pericardial spasticity or conductivity in the myocardium. 22)The nurse teaches the client with angina about the common expected side effects of nitroglycerin, including: Headache High blood pressure Shortness of breath Stomach cramps Answer - 1. Because of the widespread vasodilating effects, nitroglycerin often produces such side effects as headache, hypotension, and dizziness. The client should lie or sit down to avoid fainting. Nitro does not cause shortness of breath or stomach cramps. 23)Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets begin to work within 1 to 2 minutes. How should the nurse instruct the client to use the drug when chest pain occurs? Take one tablet every 2 to 5 minutes until the pain stops. Take one tablet and rest for 10 minutes. Call the physician if pain persists after 10 minutes. Take one tablet, then an additional tablet every 5 minutes for a total of 3 tablets. Call the physician if pain persists after three tablets. Take one tablet. If pain persists after 5 minutes, take two tablets. If pain still persists 5 minutes later, call the physician. Answer - 3. The correct protocol for nitroglycerin used involves immediate administration, with subsequent doses taken at 5-minute intervals as needed, for a total dose of 3 tablets. Sublingual nitroglycerin appears in the blood stream within 2 to 3 minutes and is metabolized within about 10 minutes. 24)Which of the following arteries primarily feeds the anterior wall of the heart? Troponin I levels rise rapidly and are detectable within 1 hour of myocardial injury. Troponin levels aren't detectable in people without cardiac injury. 29)Which of the following diagnostic tools is most commonly used to determine the location of myocardial damage? Cardiac catherization Cardiac enzymes Echocardiogram Electrocardiogram (ECG) Answer - 4. The ECG is the quickest, most accurate, and most widely used tool to determine the location of myocardial infarction. Cardiac enzymes are used to diagnose MI but can't determine the location. An echocardiogram is used most widely to view myocardial wall function after an MI has been diagnosed. Cardiac catherization is an invasive study for determining coronary artery disease and may also indicate the location of myocardial damage, but the study may not be performed immediately. 30)Which of the following types of pain is most characteristic of angina? Knifelike Sharp Shooting Tightness Answer - 4. The pain of angina usually ranges from a vague feeling of tightness to heavy, intense pain. Pain impulses originate in the most visceral muscles and may move to such areas as the chest, neck, and arms. 31)Which of the following parameters is the major determinate of diastolic blood pressure? Baroreceptors Cardiac output Renal function Vascular resistance Answer - 4. Vascular resistance is the impedance of blood flow by the arterioles that most predominantly affects the diastolic pressure. Cardiac output determines systolic blood pressure. 32)Which of the following factors can cause blood pressure to drop to normal levels? Kidneys' excretion of sodium only Kidneys' retention of sodium and water Kidneys' excretion of sodium and water Kidneys' retention of sodium and excretion of water Answer - 3. The kidneys respond to a rise in blood pressure by excreting sodium and excess water. This response ultimately affects systolic pressure by regulating blood volume. 33)Baroreceptors in the carotid artery walls and aorta respond to which of the following conditions? Changes in blood pressure Changes in arterial oxygen tension Changes in arterial carbon dioxide tension Changes in heart rate Answer - 1. Baroreceptors located in the carotid arteries and aorta sense pulsatile pressure. Decreases in pulsatile pressure cause a reflex increase in heart rate. Chemoreceptors in the medulla are primarily stimulated by carbon dioxide. Peripheral chemoreceptors in the aorta and carotid arteries are primarily stimulated by oxygen. 34)Which of the following terms describes the force against which the ventricle must expel blood? Afterload Cardiac output Overload Preload Answer - 1. Afterload refers to the resistance normally maintained by the aortic and pulmonic valves, the condition and tone of the aorta, and the resistance offered by the systemic and pulmonary arterioles. Cardiac output is the amount of blood expelled from the heart per minute. Overload refers to an abundance of circulating volume. Preload is the volume of blood in the ventricle at the end of diastole. 35)Which of the following terms is used to describe the amount of stretch on the myocardium at the end of diastole? Afterload Cardiac index Cardiac output Preload Answer - 4. Preload is the amount of stretch of the cardiac muscle fibers at the end of diastole. The volume of blood in the ventricle at the end of diastole determines the preload. Afterload is the force against which the ventricle must expel blood. Cardiac index is the individualized measurement of cardiac output, based on the client's body surface area. Cardiac output is the amount of blood the heart is expelling per minute. 36)A 57-year-old client with a history of asthma is prescribed propanolol (Inderal) to control hypertension. Before administered propranolol, which of the following actions should the nurse take first? Monitor the apical pulse rate Instruct the client to take medication with food Question the physician about the order Caution the client to rise slowly when standing. Answer - 3. Propranolol and other beta-adrenergic blockers are contraindicated in a client with asthma, so the nurse should question the physician before giving the dose. The other responses are appropriate actions for a client receiving propranolol, but questioning the physician takes priority. The client's apical pulse should always be checked before giving propranolol; if the pulse rate is extremely low, the nurse should withhold the drug and notify the physician. 37)One hour after administering IV furosemide (Lasix) to a client with heart failure, a short burst of ventricular tachycardia appears on the cardiac monitor. Which of the following electrolyte imbalances should the nurse suspect? Hypocalcemia Hypermagnesemia Hypokalemia Hypernatremia Answer - 3. Furosemide is a potassium-depleting diuretic than can cause hypokalemia. In turn, hypokalemia increases myocardial excitability, leading to ventricular tachycardia. 38)A client is receiving spironolactone to treat hypertension. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide? "Eat foods high in potassium." "Take daily potassium supplements." "Discontinue sodium restrictions." "Avoid salt substitutes." Answer - 4. Because spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, the client should avoid salt substitutes because of their high potassium content. The client should also avoid potassium-rich foods and potassium supplements. To reduce fluid-volume overload, sodium restrictions should continue. 39)When assessing an ECG, the nurse knows that the P-R interval represents the time it takes for the: Impulse to begin atrial contraction Impulse to transverse the atria to the AV node SA node to discharge the impulse to begin atrial depolarization Impulse to travel to the ventricles Answer - 4. The P-R interval is measured on the ECG strip from the beginning of the P wave to the beginning of the QRS complex. It is the time it takes for the impulse to travel to the ventricle. 40)Following a treadmill test and cardiac catheterization, the client is found to have coronary artery disease, which is inoperative. He is referred to the cardiac rehabilitation unit. During his first visit to the unit he says that he doesn't understand why he needs to be there because there is nothing that can be done to make him better. The best nursing response is: "Cardiac rehabilitation is not a cure but can help restore you to many of your former activities." "Here we teach you to gradually change your lifestyle to accommodate your heart disease." "You are probably right but we can gradually increase your activities so that you can live a more active life." "Do you feel that you will have to make some changes in your life now?" The arterial oxygen supply is lowered and the demand for oxygen is increased, which results in the heart's having to beat faster to meet the body's needs for oxygen. . 45)A client enters the ER complaining of chest pressure and severe epigastric distress. His VS are 158/90, 94, 24, and 99*F. The doctor orders cardiac enzymes. If the client were diagnosed with an MI, the nurse would expect which cardiac enzyme to rise within the next 3 to 8 hours? Creatine kinase (CK or CPK) Lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) LDH-1 LDH-2 Answer - 1. Creatine kinase (CK, formally known as CPK) rises in 3-8 hours if an MI is present. When the myocardium is damaged, CPK leaks out of the cell membranes and into the blood stream. Lactic dehydrogenase rises in 24- 48 hours, and LDH-1 and LDH-2 rises in 8-24 hours. 46)A 45-year-old male client with leg ulcers and arterial insufficiency is admitted to the hospital. The nurse understands that leg ulcers of this nature are usually caused by: Decreased arterial blood flow secondary to vasoconstriction Decreased arterial blood flow leading to hyperemia Atherosclerotic obstruction of the arteries Trauma to the lower extremities Answer - 1. Decreased arterial flow is a result of vasospasm. The etiology is unknown. It is more problematic in colder climates or when the person is under stress. Hyperemia occurs when the vasospasm is relieved. 47)Which of the following instructions should be included in the discharge teaching for a patient discharged with a transdermal nitroglycerin patch? "Apply the patch to a nonhairy, nonfatty area of the upper torso or arms." "Apply the patch to the same site each day to maintain consistent drug absorption." "If you get a headache, remove the patch for 4 hours and then reapply." "If you get chest pain, apply a second patch right next to the first patch." Answer - 1. A nitroglycerin patch should be applied to a nonhairy, nonfatty area for the best and most consistent absorption rates. Sites should be rotated to prevent skin irritation, and the drug should be continued if headache occurs because tolerance will develop. Sublingual nitroglycerin should be used to treat chest pain. 48)In order to prevent the development of tolerance, the nurse instructs the patient to: Apply the nitroglycerin patch every other day Switch to sublingual nitroglycerin when the patient's systolic blood pressure elevates to >140 mm Hg Apply the nitroglycerin patch for 14 hours each and remove for 10 hours at night Use the nitroglycerin patch for acute episodes of angina only Answer - 3. Tolerance can be prevented by maintaining an 8- to 12-hour nitrate-free period each day. 49)Direct-acting vasodilators have which of the following effects on the heart rate? Heart rate decreases Heart rate remains significantly unchanged Heart rate increases Heart rate becomes irregular Answer - 3. Heart rate increases in response to decreased blood pressure caused by vasodilation. 50)When teaching a patient why spironolactone (Aldactone) and furosemide (Lasix) are prescribed together, the nurse bases teaching on the knowledge that: Moderate doses of two different types of diuretics are more effective than a large dose of one type This combination promotes diuresis but decreases the risk of hypokalemia This combination prevents dehydration and hypovolemia Using two drugs increases osmolality of plasma and the glomerular filtration rate Answer - 2. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic; furosemide is a potassium-loosing diuretic. Giving these together minimizes electrolyte imbalance A patient with a tricuspid valve disorder will have impaired blood flow between the A. vena cava and right atrium. B. left atrium and left ventricle. C. right atrium and right ventricle. D. right ventricle and pulmonary artery. Answer - C. right atrium and right ventricle. A patient with an MI of the anterior wall of the left ventricle most likely has an occlusion of then A. right marginal artery. B. left circumflex artery. C. left anterior descending artery. D. right anterior descending artery. Answer - C. left anterior descending artery. Progress If the Purkinje system is damaged, conduction of the electrical impulse is impaired through the A. atria. B. AV node. C. C. difficulty in isolating the apical pulse. D. an increased heart rate in response to stress. Answer - C. difficulty in isolating the apical pulse. An important nursing responsibility for a patient having an invasive cardiovascular diagnostic study is A. checking the peripheral pulses and percutaneous site. B. instructing the patient about radioactive isotope injection. C. informing the patient that general anesthesia will be given. D. assisting the patient to do a surgical scrub of the insertion site. Answer - A. checking the peripheral pulses and percutaneous site. A P wave on an ECG represents an impulse A. arising at the SA node and repolarizing the atria. B. arising at the SA node and depolarizing the atria. C. arising at the AV node and depolarizing the atria. D. arising at the AV node and spreading to the bundle of His. Answer - B. arising at the SA node and depolarizing the atria. If a patient has decreased cardiac output caused by fluid volume deficit and marked vasodilation, the regulatory mechanism that will increase the blood pressure by improving both of these is A. release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). B. secretion of prostaglandins PGE C. stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. D. activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Answer - D. activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.Q While obtaining subjective assessment data from a patient with hypertension, the nurse recognizes that a modifiable risk factor for the development of hypertension is A. hyperlipidemia. B. excessive alcohol intake. C. a family history of hypertension. D. consumption of a high-carbohydrate, high-calcium diet Answer - B. excessive alcohol intake. Target organ damage that can occur from hypertension includes A. headache and dizziness. B. retinopathy and diabetes. C. hypercholesterolemia and renal dysfunction. D. renal dysfunction and left ventricular hypertrophy. Answer - D. renal dysfunction and left ventricular hypertrophy. A high-risk population that should be targeted in the primary prevention of hypertension is A. smokers. B. African Americans. C. business executives. D. middle-aged women. Answer - B. African Americans. In teaching a patient with hypertension about controlling the condition, the nurse recognizes that A. all patients with elevated BP require medication. B. it is not necessary to limit salt in the diet if taking a diuretic. C. obese persons must achieve a normal weight in order to lower BP. D. lifestyle modifications are indicated for all persons with elevated BP. Answer - D. lifestyle modifications are indicated for all persons with elevated BP. A major consideration in the management of the older adult with hypertension is to A. prevent pseudohypertension from converting to true hypertension. B. recognize that the older adult is less likely to comply with the drug therapy than a younger adult. C. ensure that the patient receives larger initial doses of antihypertensive drugs because of impaired absorption. D. use careful technique in assessing the BP of the patient because of the possible presence of an auscultatory gap. Answer - D. use careful technique in assessing the BP of the patient because of the possible presence of an auscultatory gap. A patient with newly diagnosed hypertension has a blood pressure of 158/98 after 12 months of exercise and diet modifications. The nurse advises the patient that A. medication may be required because the BP is still not within the normal range. B. continued monitoring of the BP every 3 to 6 months is all that will be necessary for treatment. C. because lifestyle modifications were not effective they do not need to be continued and drugs will be used. D. he will have to make more vigorous changes in his lifestyle if he wants to stay off medication for his hypertension. Answer - A. medication may be required because the BP is still not within the normal range. A patient is admitted to the hospital in hypertensive crisis. The nurse recognizes that the hypertensive urgency differs from hypertensive emergency in that A. the BP is always higher in a hypertensive emergency. B. hypertensive emergencies are associated with evidence of target organ damage. C. hypertensive urgency is treated with rest and tranquilizers to lower the BP. D. hypertensive emergencies require intraarterial catheter measurement of the BP. Answer - B. hypertensive emergencies are associated with evidence of target organ damage. A. cardiomyopathies. B. mitral valve disease. C. atherosclerotic heart disease. D. left ventricular hypertrophy. Answer - C. atherosclerotic heart disease. A compensatory mechanism involved in congestive heart failure that leads to inappropriate fluid retention and additional workload of the heart is A. ventricular dilation. B. ventricular hypertrophy. C. neurohormonal response. D. sympathetic nervous system activation. Answer - C. neurohormonal response. The drug used in the management of a patient with acute pulmonary edema that will decrease both preload and afterload and provide relief of anxiety is A. morphine. B. amrinone. C. dobutamine. D. aminophylline. Answer - A. morphine. A patient with chronic congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation is treated with a digitalis preparation and a loop diuretic. To prevent possible complications of this combination of drugs, the nurse needs to A. monitor serum potassium levels. B. keep an accurate measure of intake and output. C. teach the patient about dietary restriction of potassium. D. withhold the digitalis and notify the health care provider if the heart rate is irregular. A. monitor serum potassium levels. Answer - A. monitor serum potassium levels. The nurse plans care for the patient with dilated cardiomyopathy based on the knowledge that A. family members may be at risk because of the infectious nature of the disease. B. medical management of the disorder focuses on treatment of the underlying cause. C. the prognosis of the patient is poor, and emotional support is a high priority of care. D. the condition may be successfully treated with surgical ventriculomyotomy and myectomy. Answer - C. the prognosis of the patient is poor, and emotional support is a high priority of care. The primary causes of death in patients with heart transplants in the first year include A. infection and rejection. B. rejection and arrhythmias. C. arrhythmias and infection. D. myocardial infarction and lymphoma. Answer - A. infection and rejection. A patient with a stable blood pressure and no symptoms has the following electrocardiogram characteristics: atrial rate—74 and regular; ventricular rate—62 and irregular; P wave—normal contour; PR interval—lengthens progressively until a D. pallor and cyanosis of the involved extremity. Answer - C. generalized edema of the involved extremity. Nursing interventions indicated in the plan of care for the patient with acute lower extremity deep vein thrombosis include A. applying elastic compression stockings. B. administering anticoagulants as ordered. C. positioning the leg dependently to promote arterial circulation. D. encouraging walking and leg exercises to promote venous return. Answer - B. administering anticoagulants as ordered. The nurse instructs the patient discharged on anticoagulant therapy to A. limit intake of vitamin C. B. report symptoms of nausea to the physician. C. have blood drawn routinely to check electrolytes. D. be aware of and report signs or symptoms of bleeding. Answer - D. be aware of and report signs or symptoms of bleeding. A patient with a deep vein thrombosis suddenly develops dyspnea, tachypnea, and chest pain. Initially the most appropriate action by the nurse is to A. auscultate for abnormal lung sounds. B. administer oxygen and notify the physician. C. ask the patient to cough and deep breathe to clear the airways. D. elevate the head of the bed 30 to 45 degrees to facilitate breathing. Answer - D. elevate the head of the bed 30 to 45 degrees to facilitate breathing. A person who starts smoking in adolescence and continues to smoke into middle age: A. Has an increased risk for alcoholism B. Has an increased risk for obesity and diabetes C. Has an increased risk for stress- related illnesses D. Has an increased risk for cardiopulmonary disease and lung cancer Answer - D. Has an increased risk for cardiopulmonary disease and lung cancer The risk of lung cancer is 10 times greater for a person who smokes than for a nonsmoker. Cigarette smoking worsens peripheral vascular and coronary artery disease. Inhaled nicotine causes vasoconstriction of peripheral and coronary blood vessels, increasing blood pressure and decreasing blood flow to peripheral vessels. Conditions such as shock and severe dehydration resulting from extracellular fluid loss cause: A. Hypoxia B. Hypovolemi a C. Hypervolemia D. Uncontrolled bleeding Answer - B. Hypovolemia Conditions such as shock and severe dehydration cause extracellular fluid loss and reduced circulating blood volume (hypovolemia).