Week 4

The nurse is evaluating the condition of a client after pericardiocentesis performed to treat cardiac tamponade. Which observation would indicate that the procedure was unsuccessful? 1.Rising blood pressure 2.Clearly audible heart sounds 3.Client expressions of relief 4.Rising central venous pressure

4

Several hours after an open surgical repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the UAP reports to the nurse that urinary output for the past 2 hours has been 40 mL. The nurse notifies the health care provider and anticipates an order for a(n) A. hemoglobin count. B. additional antibiotic. C. decrease in IV infusion rate. D. blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level.

D

A patient is admitted with myocarditis. While performing the initial assessment, which clinical signs and symptoms might the nurse find (select all that apply)? a. angina b. pleuritic chest pain c. splinter hemorrhages d. pericardial friction rub e. presence of Osler's nodes

a. anginab. pleuritic chest paind. pericardial friction rubRationale: Clinical manifestations of myocarditis may include early systemic manifestations (i.e., fever, fatigue, malaise, myalgias, pharyngitis, dyspnea, lymphadenopathy, and nausea and vomiting), early cardiac manifestations (i.e., pleuritic chest pain with a pericardial friction rub and effusion), and late cardiac signs (i.e., S3 heart sound, crackles, jugular venous distention [JVD], syncope, peripheral edema, and angina).

What is the most common symptom in a client with abdominal aortic aneurysm? a. Abdominal pain b. Diaphoresis c. Headache d. Upper back pain

A

Which nursing action will be included in the plan of care after endovascu- lar repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm? a.Record hourly chest tube drainage. b.Monitor fluid intake and urine output. c.Check the abdominal wound for redness or swelling .d.Teach the reason for a prolonged rehabilitation process.

ANS: BBecause renal artery occlusion can occur after endovascular repair, the nurse shouldmonitor parameters of renal function such as intake and output. Chest tubes will not be needed for endovascular surgery, the recovery period will be short, and there will not be an abdominal wound.

The nurse identifies the nursing diagnosis of decreased cardiac output related to valvular insufficiency for the patient with infective endocarditis (IE) based on which assessment finding(s)? a. Fever, chills, and diaphoresis b. Urine output less than 30 mL/hr c. Petechiae on the inside of the mouth and conjunctiva d. Increase in heart rate of 15 beats/minute with walking

ANS: BDecreased renal perfusion caused by inadequate cardiac output will lead to decreased urine output. Petechiae, fever, chills, and diaphoresis are symptoms of IE, but are not caused by decreased cardiac output. An increase in pulse rate of 15 beats/minute is normal with exercise.

Which assessment finding in a patient who is admitted with infective endocarditis (IE) is most important to communicate to the health care provider? a. Generalized muscle aching b. Sudden onset right flank pain c. Janeway's lesions on the palms d. Temperature 100.7° F (38.1° C)

ANS: BSudden onset of flank pain indicates possible embolization to the kidney and may require diagnostic testing such as a renal arteriogram and interventions to improve renal perfusion. The other findings are typically found in IE, but do not require any new interventions.

When developing a community health program to decrease the incidence of rheumatic fever, which action would be most important for the community health nurse to include? a. Vaccinate high-risk groups in the community with streptococcal vaccine. b. Teach community members to seek treatment for streptococcal pharyngitis. c. Teach about the importance of monitoring temperature when sore throats occur. d. Teach about prophylactic antibiotics to those with a family history of rheumatic fever.

ANS: BThe incidence of rheumatic fever is decreased by treatment of streptococcal infections with antibiotics. Family history is not a risk factor for rheumatic fever. There is no immunization that is effective in decreasing the incidence of rheumatic fever. Teaching about monitoring temperature will not decrease the incidence of rheumatic fever.

After receiving the following information about four patients during change-of-shift report, which patient should the nurse assess first? a. Patient with acute pericarditis who has a pericardial friction rub b. Patient who has just returned to the unit after balloon valvuloplasty c. Patient who has hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and a heart rate of 116 d. Patient with a mitral valve replacement who has an anticoagulant scheduled

ANS: BThe patient who has just arrived after balloon valvuloplasty will need assessment for complications such as bleeding and hypotension. The information about the other patients is consistent with their diagnoses and does not indicate any complications or need for urgent assessment or intervention.

During discharge teaching with a 68-year-old patient who had a mitral valve replacement with a mechanical valve, the nurse instructs the patient on the a. use of daily aspirin for anticoagulation. b. correct method for taking the radial pulse. c. need for frequent laboratory blood testing. d. need to avoid any physical activity for 1 month.

ANS: CAnticoagulation with warfarin (Coumadin) is needed for a patient with mechanical valves to prevent clotting on the valve. This will require frequent international normalized ratio (INR) testing. Daily aspirin use will not be effective in reducing the risk for clots on the valve. Monitoring of the radial pulse is not necessary after valve replacement. Patients should resume activities of daily living as tolerated.

Which action by the nurse will determine if the therapies ordered for a patient with chronic constrictive pericarditis are effective? a. Assess for the presence of a paradoxical pulse. b. Monitor for changes in the patient's sedimentation rate. c. Assess for the presence of jugular venous distention (JVD). d. Check the electrocardiogram (ECG) for ST segment changes.

ANS: CBecause the most common finding on physical examination for a patient with chronic constrictive pericarditis is jugular venous distention, a decrease in JVD indicates improvement. Paradoxical pulse, ST-segment ECG changes, and changes in sedimentation rates occur with acute pericarditis but are not expected in chronic constrictive pericarditis.

A 21-year-old woman is scheduled for percutaneous transluminal balloon valvuloplasty to treat mitral stenosis. Which information should the nurse include when explaining the advantages of valvuloplasty over valve replacement to the patient? a. Biologic valves will require immunosuppressive drugs after surgery. b. Mechanical mitral valves need to be replaced sooner than biologic valves. c. Lifelong anticoagulant therapy will be needed after mechanical valve replacement. d. Ongoing cardiac care by a health care provider is not necessary after valvuloplasty.

ANS: CLong-term anticoagulation therapy is needed after mechanical valve replacement, and this would restrict decisions about career and childbearing in this patient. Mechanical valves are durable and last longer than biologic valves. All valve repair procedures are palliative, not curative, and require lifelong health care. Biologic valves do not activate the immune system, and immunosuppressive therapy is not needed.

The nurse is caring for a patient with a descending aortic dissection. Which assessment finding is most important to report to the health care provider? a. Weak pedal pulses b. Absent bowel sounds c. Blood pressure 137/88 mm Hg d. 25 mL urine output over last hour

ANS: CThe blood pressure is typically kept at less than 120 mm Hg systolic to minimize extension of the dissection. The nurse will need to notify the health care provider so that -blockers or other antihypertensive medications can be prescribed. The other findings are typical with aortic dissection and should also be reported but do not require immediate action.

When discussing risk factor modification for a 63-year-old patient who has a 5-cm abdominal aortic aneurysm, the nurse will focus discharge teaching on which patient risk factor? a. Male gender b. Turner syndrome c. Abdominal trauma history d. Uncontrolled hypertension

ANS: DAll of the factors contribute to the patient's risk, but only hypertension can potentially be modified to decrease the patient's risk for further expansion of the aneurysm.

The nurse establishes the nursing diagnosis of ineffective health maintenance related to lack of knowledge regarding long-term management of rheumatic fever when a 30-year-old recovering from rheumatic fever without carditis says which of the following? a. "I will need prophylactic antibiotic therapy for 5 years." b. "I will need to take aspirin or ibuprofen (Motrin) to relieve my joint pain." c. "I will call the doctor if I develop excessive fatigue or difficulty breathing." d. "I will be immune to further episodes of rheumatic fever after this infection."

ANS: DPatients with a history of rheumatic fever are more susceptible to a second episode. Patients with rheumatic fever without carditis require prophylaxis until age 20 and for a minimum of 5 years. The other patient statements are correct and would not support the nursing diagnosis of ineffective health maintenance.

Which action could the nurse delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) trained as electrocardiogram (ECG) technicians working on the cardiac unit? a. Select the best lead for monitoring a patient with an admission diagnosis of Dressler syndrome. b. Obtain a list of herbal medications used at home while admitting a new patient with pericarditis. c. Teach about the need to monitor the weight daily for a patient who has hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. d. Check the heart monitor for changes in rhythm while a patient who had a valve replacement ambulates.

ANS: DUnder the supervision of registered nurses (RNs), UAP check the patient's cardiac monitor and obtain information about changes in heart rate and rhythm with exercise. Teaching and obtaining information about home medications (prescribed or complementary) and selecting the best leads for monitoring patients require more critical thinking and should be done by the RN.

While caring for a 23-year-old patient with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) without valvular regurgitation, the nurse determines that discharge teaching has been effective when the patient states that it will be necessary to a. take antibiotics before any dental appointments. b. limit physical activity to avoid stressing the heart. c. take an aspirin a day to prevent clots from forming on the valve. d. avoid use of over-the-counter (OTC) medications that contain stimulant drugs.

ANS: DUse of stimulant medications should be avoided by patients with MVP because these may exacerbate symptoms. Daily aspirin and restricted physical activity are not needed by patients with mild MVP. Antibiotic prophylaxis is needed for patients with MVP with regurgitation but will not be necessary for this patient.

A nurse in a cardiac unit is caring for a client with acute right-sided heart failure. which of the following findings should the nurse expect? a. decreased BNP b. elevated CVP c. increased PAWP d. decreased specific gravity

B

A nurse is assessing a client who has infective endocarditis. Which of the following should be the priority for the nurse to report to the provider? a. Splinter hemorrhages to the nails b. Dyspnea c. fever d. Clusters of petechiae in the mouth

B

A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving a continuous IV infusion of dopamine. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as a therapeutic effect? A. Increased pulse B. Increased urine output C. Decreased blood pressure D. Decreased dysrhythmias

B

A nurse is caring for a client who has infective endocarditis. Which of the following manifestation is the priority for the nurse to monitor for? a. Anorexia b. Dyspnea c. Fever d. Malaise

B

A nurse is caring for a client who is prescribed warfarin therapy for an artificial heart valve. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor for a therapeutic effect of warfarin? a.Hemoglobin (Hgb) b.Prothrombin time (PT) c.Bleeding time d/Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)

B

Which of the following groups of symptoms indicated a ruptured abdominal aneurysm? a. Lower back pain, increased BP, decreased RBC, increased WBC b. Severe lower back pain, decreased BP, decreased RBC, increased WBC c. Severe lower back pain, decreased BP, decreased RBC, decreased WBC d. Intermittent lower back pain, decreased BP, decreased RBC, increased WBC

B

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

C

Which of the following complications of an abdominal aortic repair is indicated by detection of a hematoma in the perineal area? a. Hernia b. Stage 1 pressure ulcer c. Retroperitoneal rupture at the repair site d. Rapid expansion of the aneurysm

C

A client is admitted with suspected abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). A common complaint of the client with an abdominal aortic aneurysm is: A. Loss of sensation in the lower extremities B. Back pain that lessens when standing C. Decreased urinary output D. Pulsations in the periumbilical area

D

A nurse is assessing a client who has left-sided heart failure. which of the following findings should the nurse expect? a. Jugular venous distention b. Abdominal distension c. Dependent edema d. Hacking cough

D

A nursing student is caring for a client with an abdominal aneurysm. What action by the student requires the registered nurse to intervene? a. Assesses the client for back pain b. Auscultates over abdominal bruit c. Measures the abdominal girth d. Palpates the abdomen in four quadrants

D

A patient admitted with acute dyspnea is newly diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy. Which information will the nurse plan to teach the patient about managing this disorder? a. A heart transplant should be scheduled as soon as possible. b. Elevating the legs above the heart will help relieve dyspnea. c. Careful compliance with diet and medications will prevent heart failure. d. Notify the doctor about any symptoms of heart failure such as shortness of breath.

D

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

D

An 80-year-old patient with uncontrolled type 1 diabetes mellitus is diagnosed with aortic stenosis. When conservative therapy is no longer effective, the nurse knows that the patient will need to do or have what done? A. Aortic valve replacement B. Take nitroglycerin for chest pain. C. Open commissurotomy (valvulotomy) procedure D. Percutaneous transluminal balloon valvuloplasty (PTBV) procedure

D. Percutaneous transluminal balloon valvuloplasty (PTBV) procedure

Upon admission assessment, the nurse notes clubbing of the patient's fingers. Based on this finding, the nurse will question the patient about which of the following disease processes? a. Endocarditis b. Acute renal failure c. Myocardial infarction d. Chronic thrombophlebitis

a. EndocarditisRationale: Clubbing of the fingers is a loss of the normal angle between the base of the nail and the skin. This finding can be found in endocarditis, congenital defects, and/or prolonged oxygen deficiency.

A nurse is assessing a 3-year old child who has aortic stenosis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (select all the apply) Hypotension Bradycardia Clubbing of the nail beds Weak pulses Murmur

Hypotension Weak pulses Murmur

A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who is 24 hr postoperative following an aortic valve replacement with a biologic valve. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

Monitor daily weight

When performing discharge teaching for the patient with any type of cardiomyopathy, the nurse instructs the patient to (select all that apply) a. eat a low-sodium diet b. suggest that caregivers learn CPR c. engage in stress reduction activities d. abstain from alcohol and caffeine intake e. avoid strenuous activity and allow for periods of rest

a. eat a low-sodium dietb. suggest that caregivers learn CPRc. engage in stress reduction activitiesd. abstain from alcohol and caffeine intakee. avoid strenuous activity and allow for periods of restRationale: These are all points that can apply to any cardiomyopathy.

Which of the following diagnostic study best differentiates the various types of cardiomyopathy? a. echocardiography b. arterial blood gases c. cardiac catheterization d. endomyocardial biopsy

a. echocardiographyRationale: The echocardiogram is the primary diagnostic tool used to differentiate between the different types of cardiomyopathies and other structural cardiac abnormalities.

The nurse is admitting a 68-year-old preoperative patient with a suspected abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). The medication history reveals that the patient has been taking warfarin (Coumadin) on a daily basis. Based on this history and the patient's admission diagnosis, the nurse should prepare to administer which medication? 1Vitamin K 2Cobalamin 3Heparin sodium 4Protamine sulfate

1

Which parameter is elevated in right-sided heart failure? 1. CVP 2. Left-ventricular end-diastolic pressure 3. PAWP 4. Cardiac output

1

A patient is scheduled to undergo surgery for repair of an aortic dissection. Which interventions should the nurse include in the preoperative care plan? Select all that apply. 1 Providing emotional support to the patient 2 Keeping the patient in bed in a supine position 3 Monitoring changes in peripheral pulses 4 Administering opioids and sedatives as prescribed5 Managing pain and anxiety

1,3,4,5

A client with endocarditis develops sudden leg pain with pallor, tingling, and loss of peripheral pulses. The nurse's initial action should be to: 1. Elevate the leg above the level of the heart. 2. Wrap the leg in a loose blanket. 3. Notify the physician about the findings. 4. Perform passive ROM exercises to stimulate circulation.

2

A patient with infective endocarditis of a prosthetic mitral valve develops a left hemiparesis and visual changes. The nurse expects that collaborative management of the patient will include a. an embolectomy b. surgical valve replacement c. administration of anticoagulants d. higher than usual antibiotic dosages

b. surgical valve replacementRationale: Drug therapy for patients who develop endocarditis of prosthetic valves is often unsuccessful in eliminating the infection and preventing embolization, and early valve replacement followed by prolonged drug therapy is recommended for these patients.

The nurse is caring for a patient with chronic constrictive pericarditis. Which assessment finding reflects a more serious complication of this condition? a. fatigue b. peripheral edema c. jugular venous distention d. thickened pericardium on echocardiography

c. jugular venous distentionRationale: Cardiac tamponade is a serious complication of pericarditis. As the compression of the heart increases, decreased left atrial filling decreases cardiac output. Neck veins usually are markedly distended because of jugular venous pressure elevation.

Which observation made by the nurse should indicate the presence of the complication of graft thrombosis afteraortic aneurysm repair? a. Cardiac dysrhythmias or chest pain b. Absent bowel sounds, abdominal distention, or diarrhea c. Increased temperature and increased white blood cell count d. Decreased pulses and cool, painful extremities below the level of repair

d. Decreased or absent pulses in conjunction with cool, painful extremities below the level of repair indicate graft thrombosis. Cardiac dysrhythmias or chest pain indicates myocardial ischemia. Absent bowel sounds, abdominal distention, diarrhea, or bloody stools indicate bowel infarction. Increased temperature and white blood cells, surgical site inflammation, or drainage indicates graft infection.

A patient hospitalized for 1 week with subacute infective endocarditis is afebrile and has no signs of heart damage. Discharge with outpatient antibiotic therapy is planned. During discharge planning with the patient, it is most important for the nurse to a. plan how his needs will be met while he continues on bed rest b. teach the patient to avoid crowds and exposure to upper respiratory infections c. encourage the use of diversional activities to relieve boredom and restlessness d. assess the patient's home environment in terms of family assistance and hospital access

d. assess the patient's home environment in terms of family assistance and hospital accessRationale: The patient with outpatient antibiotic therapy requires vigilant home nursing care, and it is most important to determine the adequacy of the home environment for successful management of the patient. The patient is at risk for life-threatening complications, such as embolization and pulmonary edema, and must be able to access a hospital if needed. Bed rest will not be necessary for the patient without heart damage. Avoiding infections and planning diversional activities are indicated for the patient but are not the most important step while he is on outpatient antibiotic therapy.

What is the most common cause of abdominal aortic aneurysm? a. Atherosclerosis b. DM c. HPN d. Syphilis

A Plaques build up on the wall of the vessel and weaken it, causing an aneurysm.

A pulsating abdominal mass usually indicates which of the following conditions? a. Abdominal aortic aneurysm b. Enlarged spleen c. Gastic distention d. Gastritis

A

The nurse working in the emergency department knows that which factors are commonly related to aneurysm formation? a. Atherosclerosis b. Down syndrome c. Frequent heartburn d. History of hypertension e. History of smoking

A, D, E

The nurse is assessing a patient with myocarditis before administering the scheduled dose of digoxin (Lanoxin). Which finding is most important for the nurse to communicate to the health care provider? a. Leukocytosis b. Irregular pulse c. Generalized myalgia d. Complaint of fatigue

ANS: BMyocarditis predisposes the heart to digoxin-associated dysrhythmias and toxicity. The other findings are common symptoms of myocarditis and there is no urgent need to report these.

When caring for a patient with infective endocarditis of the tricuspid valve, the nurse should monitor the patient for the development of a. flank pain. b. splenomegaly. c. shortness of breath. d. mental status changes.

ANS: CEmbolization from the tricuspid valve would cause symptoms of pulmonary embolus. Flank pain, changes in mental status, and splenomegaly would be associated with embolization from the left-sided valves.

A nurse is collecting data from a client who has mitral stenosis. which of the following findings is a manifestation of this condition?

Dyspnea on exertion

The nurse is evaluating the condition of a client after pericardiocentesis performed to treat cardiac tamponade. Which observation would indicate that the procedure was successful? 1. Muffled heart sounds 2. A rise in blood pressure 3. Jugular venous distention 4. Client expressions of dyspnea

Rise in BP

. A client with dilated cardiomyopathy, pulmonary edema, and severe dyspnea is placed on dobutamine. Which assessment finding indicates that the drug is effective? 1. Increased activity tolerance 2. Absence of arrhythmias 3. Negative Homans' sign 4. Blood pressure of 160/90 mm Hg

1

A client comes to the emergency department with a dissecting aortic aneurysm. The client is at greatest risk for: 1. septic shock 2. anaphylactic shock 3. cardiogenic shock 4. hypovolemic shock

4

A patient recovering from heart surgery develops pericarditis and complains of level 6 (0 to 10 scale) chest pain with deep breathing. Which ordered PRN medication will be the most appropriate for the nurse to give? a. Fentanyl 1 mg IV b. IV morphine sulfate 4 mg c. Oral ibuprofen (Motrin) 600 mg d. Oral acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg

ANS: CThe pain associated with pericarditis is caused by inflammation, so nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., ibuprofen) are most effective. Opioid analgesics are usually not used for the pain associated with pericarditis.

When teaching a patient about risk factors for AAA, which of the following, if stated by the patient indicates correct understanding? A) Taking ACE inhibitors or ARBS B) Being female C) Genetic disorder D) Straining while pooping

C. Aortic Aneurysm can be caused by being male, smoking, family history or congenital weakness, and hypertension

The nurse is caring for a client with a dignosis of aortic stenosis. The client reports episodes of angina and passing out recently at home. The client has surgery scheduled in 2 weeks. Which of the following would be the nurse's best explanation about activity at this time? 1. "It is best to avoid strenuous exercise, stairs, and lifting before your surgery." 2. "Take short walks three times daily to prepare for postoperative rehabilitation." 3. "There are no activity restrictions unless the angina reoccurs; then please call the office." 4. "Gradually increase activity before surgery to build stamina for the postoperative period."

1

An abdominal x-ray report of an obese patient indicates a pulsatile mass in the periumbilical area. Further diagnostic tests confirm that the patient has an abdominal aortic aneurysm (> 6 cm). The nurse recognizes that aneurysms in the early phase are often difficult to diagnose for what reasons? Select all that apply. 1 Abdominal aortic aneurysms are often asymptomatic 2 Abdominal aortic aneurysms often go undetected by routine examinations 3 Abdominal aortic aneurysms can only be diagnosed by specialized equipment 4 Abdominal aortic aneurysms may mimic the symptoms of other diseases 5 Obesity might influence the results of abdominal x-rays

1,4,5

A patient is admitted in acute distress with unrelieved back pain that radiates to his groin. This patient has a history of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). What additional signs and symptoms might the patient state? 1. Midsternal chest pressure relieved with nitroglycerin paste 2. Bruit to left of the midline in the abdominal area 3. Extreme headache 4. Numbness and tingling in the hands and arms

2

Following a left anterior myocardial infarction, a client undergoes insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter. Which finding most strongly suggests left-sided heart failure? 1. A drop in central venous pressure 2. An increase in the cardiac index 3. A rise in pulmonary artery diastolic pressure 4. A decline in mean pulmonary artery pressure

3

A patient is recovering from abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. After taking the patient's vital signs, which result would necessitate immediate action by the nurse? 1Temperature 99.9 ºF (37.7 ºC) 2Apical pulse rate 86 beats/minute 3Respirations rate 16 per minute 4Blood pressure 196/100.

4

A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving dopamine IV to treat left ventricular failure. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the medication is having a therapeutic effect? A. Systolic blood pressure is increased B. Cardiac output is reduced C. Apical heart rate is increased D. Urine output is reduced

A

The patient had myocarditis and is now experiencing fatigue, weakness, palpitations, and dyspnea at rest. The nurse assesses pulmonary crackles, edema, and weak peripheral pulses. Sinoatrial tachycardia is evident on the cardiac monitor. The Doppler echocardiography shows dilated cardiomyopathy. What collaborative and nursing care of this patient should be done to improve cardiac output and the quality of life? (Select all that apply.) A. Decrease preload and afterload. B. Relieve left ventricular outflow obstruction. C. Control heart failure by enhancing myocardial contractility. D. Improve diastolic filling and the underlying disease process. E. Improve ventricular filling by reducing ventricular contractility

A. Decrease preload and afterload. C. Control heart failure by enhancing myocardial contractility. The patient is experiencing dilated cardiomyopathy. To improve cardiac output and quality of life, drug, nutrition, and cardiac rehabilitation will be focused on controlling heart failure by decreasing preload and afterload and improving cardiac output, which will improve the quality of life. Relief of left ventricular outflow obstruction and improving ventricular filling by reducing ventricular contractility is done for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. There are no specific treatments for restrictive cardiomyopathy, but interventions are aimed at improving diastolic filling and the underlying disease process

While doing an admission assessment, the nurse notes clubbing of the patient's fingers. Based on this finding, the nurse will question the patient about which disease process? A. Endocarditis B. Acute kidney injury C. Myocardial infarction D. Chronic thrombophlebitis

A. Endocarditis Clubbing of the fingers is a loss of the normal angle between the base of the nail and the skin. This finding can be found in endocarditis, congenital defects, and/or prolonged oxygen deficiency. Clinical manifestations of acute kidney injury, myocardial infarction, and chronic thrombophlebitis will not include clubbing of the fingers.

When caring for a patient with infective endocarditis, the nurse will assess the patient for which vascular manifestations (select all that apply)? A. Osler's nodes B. Janeway's lesions C. Splinter hemorrhages D. Subcutaneous nodules E. Erythema marginatum lesions

A. Osler's nodes B. Janeway's lesions C. Splinter hemorrhages Osler's nodes, Janeway's lesions, and splinter hemorrhages are all vascular manifestations of infective endocarditis. Subcutaneous nodules and erythema marginatum lesions occur with rheumatic fever.

The nurse is teaching a community group about preventing rheumatic fever. What information should the nurse include? A. Prompt recognition and treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis B. Completion of 4 to 6 days of antibiotic therapy for infective endocarditis of respiratory infections in children born with heart defects C. Avoidance of respiratory infections in children who have rheumatoid arthritis D. Requesting antibiotics before dental surgery for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis

A. Prompt recognition and treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis The nurse should emphasize the need for prompt and adequate treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis infection, which can lead to the complication of rheumatic fever.

While admitting a patient with pericarditis, the nurse will assess for what manifestations of this disorder? A. Pulsus paradoxus B. Prolonged PR intervals C. Widened pulse pressure D. Clubbing of the fingers

A. Pulsus paradoxus Pericarditis can lead to cardiac tamponade, an emergency situation. Pulsus paradoxus greater than 10 mm Hg is a sign of cardiac tamponade that should be assessed at least every 4 hours in a patient with pericarditis. Prolonged PR intervals occur with first-degree AV block. Widened pulse pressure occurs with valvular heart disease. Clubbing of fingers may occur in subacute forms of infective endocarditis and valvular heart disease.

An 80-year-old patient with a history of an abdominal aortic aneurysm arrives at the emergency department (ED) with severe back pain and absent pedal pulses. Which actions should the nurse take first? a. Obtain the blood pressure .b. Obtain blood for laboratory testing. c. Assess for the presence of an abdominal bruit. d. Determine any family history of kidney disease.

ANS: ABecause the patient appears to be experiencing aortic dissection, the nurse's first action should be to determine the hemodynamic status by assessing blood pressure. The other actions also may be done, but they will not provide information that will determine what interventions are needed immediately for this patient.

An 80-year-old patient with a history of an abdominal aortic aneurysm arrives at the emergency department (ED) with severe back pain and absent pedal pulses. Which actions should the nurse take first? a. Obtain the blood pressure. b. Obtain blood for laboratory testing. c. Assess for the presence of an abdominal bruit. d. Determine any family history of kidney disease.

ANS: ABecause the patient appears to be experiencing aortic dissection, the nurse's first action should be to determine the hemodynamic status by assessing blood pressure. The other actions also may be done, but they will not provide information that will determine what interventions are needed immediately for this patient.

The nurse is caring for a 78-year-old patient with aortic stenosis. Which assessment data obtained by the nurse would be most important to report to the health care provider? a. The patient complains of chest pressure when ambulating. b. A loud systolic murmur is heard along the right sternal border. c. A thrill is palpated at the second intercostal space, right sternal border. d. The point of maximum impulse (PMI) is at the left midclavicular line.

ANS: AChest pressure (or pain) occurring with aortic stenosis is caused by cardiac ischemia, and reporting this information would be a priority. A systolic murmur and thrill are expected in a patient with aortic stenosis. A PMI at the left midclavicular line is normal.

The nurse is caring for a 64-year-old patient admitted with mitral valve regurgitation. Which information obtained by the nurse when assessing the patient should be communicated to the health care provider immediately? a. The patient has bilateral crackles. b. The patient has bilateral, 4+ peripheral edema. c. The patient has a loud systolic murmur across the precordium. d. The patient has a palpable thrill felt over the left anterior chest.

ANS: ACrackles that are audible throughout the lungs indicate that the patient is experiencing severe left ventricular failure with pulmonary congestion and needs immediate interventions such as diuretics. A systolic murmur and palpable thrill would be expected in a patient with mitral regurgitation. Although 4+ peripheral edema indicates a need for a change in therapy, it does not need to be addressed urgently.

A patient is admitted to the hospital with possible acute pericarditis. The nurse should plan to teach the patient about the purpose of a. echocardiography. b. daily blood cultures. c. cardiac catheterization. d. 24-hour Holter monitor.

ANS: AEchocardiograms are useful in detecting the presence of the pericardial effusions associated with pericarditis. Blood cultures are not indicated unless the patient has evidence of sepsis. Cardiac catheterization and 24-hour Holter monitor is not a diagnostic procedure for pericarditis.

The nurse is caring for a patient immediately after repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. On assessment, the patient has absent popliteal, posterior tibial, and dorsalis pedis pulses. The legs are cool and mottled. Which action should the nurse take first? a. Notify the surgeon and anesthesiologist. b. Wrap both the legs in a warming blanket. c. Document the findings and recheck in 15 minutes. d. Compare findings to the preoperative assessment of the pulses.

ANS: ALower extremity pulses may be absent for a short time after surgery because of vasospasm and hypothermia. Decreased or absent pulses together with a cool and mottled extremity may indicate embolization or graft occlusion. These findings should be reported to the physician immediately because this is an emergency situation. Because pulses are marked prior to surgery, the nurse would know whether pulses were present prior to surgery before notifying the health care providers about the absent pulses. Because the patient's symptoms may indicate graft occlusion or multiple emboli and a possible need to return to surgery, it is not appropriate to wait 15 minutes before taking action. A warming blanket will not improve the circulation to the patient's legs.

The nurse suspects cardiac tamponade in a patient who has acute pericarditis. To assess for the presence of pulsus paradoxus, the nurse should a. note when Korotkoff sounds are auscultated during both inspiration and expiration. b. subtract the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) from the systolic blood pressure (SBP). c. check the electrocardiogram (ECG) for variations in rate during the respiratory cycle. d. listen for a pericardial friction rub that persists when the patient is instructed to stop breathing.

ANS: APulsus paradoxus exists when there is a gap of greater than 10 mm Hg between when Korotkoff sounds can be heard during only expiration and when they can be heard throughout the respiratory cycle. The other methods described would not be useful in determining the presence of pulsus paradoxus.

While caring for a patient with aortic stenosis, the nurse identifies a nursing diagnosis of acute pain related to decreased coronary blood flow. A priority nursing intervention for this patient would be to a. promote rest to decrease myocardial oxygen demand .b. teach the patient about the need for anticoagulant therapy. c. teach the patient to use sublingual nitroglycerin for chest pain. d. raise the head of the bed 60 degrees to decrease venous return.

ANS: ARest is recommended to balance myocardial oxygen supply and demand and to decrease chest pain. The patient with aortic stenosis requires higher preload to maintain cardiac output, so nitroglycerin and measures to decrease venous return are contraindicated. Anticoagulation is not recommended unless the patient has atrial fibrillation.

Two days after an acute myocardial infarction (MI), a patient complains of stabbing chest pain that increases with a deep breath. Which action will the nurse take first? a. Auscultate the heart sounds. b. Check the patient's temperature. c. Notify the patient's health care provider. d. Give the PRN acetaminophen (Tylenol).

ANS: AThe patient's clinical manifestations and history are consistent with pericarditis, and the first action by the nurse should be to listen for a pericardial friction rub. Checking the temperature and notifying the health care provider are also appropriate actions but would not be done before listening for a rub. It is not stated for what symptom (e.g., headache) or finding (e.g., increased temperature) the PRN acetaminophen (Tylenol) is ordered.

Which nursing action should be included in the plan of care after endovascular repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm? a. Record hourly chest tube drainage. b. Monitor fluid intake and urine output. c. Check the abdominal incision for any redness. d. Teach the reason for a prolonged recovery period.

ANS: BBecause renal artery occlusion can occur after endovascular repair, the nurse should monitor parameters of renal function such as intake and output. Chest tubes will not be needed for endovascular surgery, the recovery period will be short, and there will not be an abdominal

A patient has a 6-cm thoracic aortic aneurysm that was discovered during a routine chest x-ray. When obtaining an admission history from the patient, it will be most important for the nurse to ask about a. low back pain. b. trouble swallowing .c. abdominal tenderness. d. changes in bowel habits.

ANS: BDifficulty swallowing may occur with a thoracic aneurysm because of pressure on the esophagus. The other symptoms will be important to assess for in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms.

A patient has a 6-cm thoracic aortic aneurysm that was discovered during a routine chest x-ray. When obtaining an admission history from the patient, it will be most important for the nurse to ask about a. low back pain. b. trouble swallowing. c. abdominal tenderness. d. changes in bowel habits.

ANS: BDifficulty swallowing may occur with a thoracic aneurysm because of pressure on the esophagus. The other symptoms will be important to assess for in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms.

After receiving report on the following patients, which patient should the nurse assess first? a. Patient with rheumatic fever who has sharp chest pain with a deep breath b. Patient with acute aortic regurgitation whose blood pressure is 86/54 mm Hg c. Patient with infective endocarditis who has a murmur and splinter hemorrhages d. Patient with dilated cardiomyopathy who has bilateral crackles at the lung bases

ANS: BHypotension in patients with acute aortic regurgitation may indicate cardiogenic shock. The nurse should immediately assess this patient for other findings such as dyspnea or chest pain. The findings in the other patients are typical of their diagnoses and do not indicate a need for urgent assessment and intervention.

When caring for a patient on the first postoperative day after an abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to communicate to the health care provider? a. Presence of flatus b. Loose, bloody stools c. Hypoactive bowel sounds d. Abdominal pain with palpation

ANS: BLoose, bloody stools at this time may indicate intestinal ischemia or infarction, and should be reported immediately because the patient may need an emergency bowel resection. The other findings are normal on the first postoperative day after abdominal surgery.

During the assessment of a 25-year-old patient with infective endocarditis (IE), the nurse would expect to find a. substernal chest pressure. b. a new regurgitant murmur. c. a pruritic rash on the chest. d. involuntary muscle movement.

ANS: BNew regurgitant murmurs occur in IE because vegetations on the valves prevent valve closure. Substernal chest discomfort, rashes, and involuntary muscle movement are clinical manifestations of other cardiac disorders such as angina and rheumatic fever.

To assess the patient with pericarditis for evidence of a pericardial friction rub, the nurse should a. listen for a rumbling, low-pitched, systolic murmur over the left anterior chest. b. auscultate by placing the diaphragm of the stethoscope on the lower left sternal border. c. ask the patient to cough during auscultation to distinguish the sound from a pleural friction rub. d. feel the precordial area with the palm of the hand to detect vibrations with cardiac contraction.

ANS: BPericardial friction rubs are heard best with the diaphragm at the lower left sternal border. The nurse should ask the patient to hold his or her breath during auscultation to distinguish the sounds from a pleural friction rub. Friction rubs are not typically low pitched or rumbling and are not confined to systole. Rubs are not assessed by palpation.

The nurse is admitting a patient with possible rheumatic fever. Which question on the admission health history will be most pertinent to ask? a. "Do you use any illegal IV drugs?" b. "Have you had a recent sore throat?" c. "Have you injured your chest in the last few weeks?" d. "Do you have a family history of congenital heart disease?"

ANS: BRheumatic fever occurs as a result of an abnormal immune response to a streptococcal infection. Although illicit IV drug use should be discussed with the patient before discharge, it is not a risk factor for rheumatic fever, and would not be as pertinent when admitting the patient. Family history is not a risk factor for rheumatic fever. Chest injury would cause musculoskeletal chest pain rather than rheumatic fever.

A patient with rheumatic fever has subcutaneous nodules, erythema marginatum, and polyarthritis. Based on these findings, which nursing diagnosis would be most appropriate? a. Pain related to permanent joint fixation b. Activity intolerance related to arthralgia c. Risk for infection related to open skin lesions d. Risk for impaired skin integrity related to pruritus

ANS: BThe patient's joint pain will lead to difficulty with activity. The skin lesions seen in rheumatic fever are not open or pruritic. Although acute joint pain will be a problem for this patient, joint inflammation is a temporary clinical manifestation of rheumatic fever and is not associated with permanent joint changes.

When planning care for a patient hospitalized with a streptococcal infective endocarditis (IE), which intervention is a priority for the nurse to include? a. Monitor labs for streptococcal antibodies. b. Arrange for placement of a long-term IV catheter. c. Teach the importance of completing all oral antibiotics. d. Encourage the patient to begin regular aerobic exercise.

ANS: BTreatment for IE involves 4 to 6 weeks of IV antibiotic therapy in order to eradicate the bacteria, which will require a long-term IV catheter such as a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line. Rest periods and limiting physical activity to a moderate level are recommended during the treatment for IE. Oral antibiotics are not effective in eradicating the infective bacteria that cause IE. Blood cultures, rather than antibody levels, are used to monitor the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy.

Which admission order written by the health care provider for a patient admitted with infective endocarditis (IE) and a fever would be a priority for the nurse to implement? a. Administer ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 1 g IV. b. Order blood cultures drawn from two sites. c. Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) PRN for fever. d. Arrange for a transesophageal echocardiogram.

ANS: BTreatment of the IE with antibiotics should be started as quickly as possible, but it is essential to obtain blood cultures before initiating antibiotic therapy to obtain accurate sensitivity results. The echocardiogram and acetaminophen administration also should be implemented rapidly, but the blood cultures (and then administration of the antibiotic) have the highest priority.

The nurse will plan discharge teaching about the need for prophylactic antibiotics when having dental procedures for which patient? a. Patient admitted with a large acute myocardial infarction. b. Patient being discharged after an exacerbation of heart failure. c. Patient who had a mitral valve replacement with a mechanical valve. d. Patient being treated for rheumatic fever after a streptococcal infection.

ANS: CCurrent American Heart Association guidelines recommend the use of prophylactic antibiotics before dental procedures for patients with prosthetic valves to prevent infective endocarditis (IE). The other patients are not at risk for IE.

Which statement by a patient with restrictive cardiomyopathy indicates that the nurse's discharge teaching about self-management has been most effective? a. "I will avoid taking aspirin or other antiinflammatory drugs." b. "I will need to limit my intake of salt and fluids even in hot weather." c. "I will take antibiotics when my teeth are cleaned at the dental office." d. "I should begin an exercise program that includes things like biking or swimming."

ANS: CPatients with restrictive cardiomyopathy are at risk for infective endocarditis and should use prophylactic antibiotics for any procedure that may cause bacteremia. The other statements indicate a need for more teaching by the nurse. Dehydration and vigorous exercise impair ventricular filling in patients with restrictive cardiomyopathy. There is no need to avoid salt (unless ordered), aspirin, or NSAIDs.

Which assessment finding obtained by the nurse when assessing a patient with acute pericarditis should be reported immediately to the health care provider? a. Pulsus paradoxus 8 mm Hg b. Blood pressure (BP) of 168/94 c. Jugular venous distention (JVD) to jaw level d. Level 6 (0 to 10 scale) chest pain with a deep breath

ANS: CThe JVD indicates that the patient may have developed cardiac tamponade and may need rapid intervention to maintain adequate cardiac output. Hypertension would not be associated with complications of pericarditis, and the BP is not high enough to indicate that there is any immediate need to call the health care provider. A pulsus paradoxus of 8 mm Hg is normal. Level 6/10 chest pain should be treated but is not unusual with pericarditis.

When caring for a patient with mitral valve stenosis, it is most important that the nurse assess for a. diastolic murmur. b. peripheral edema. c. shortness of breath on exertion. d. right upper quadrant tenderness.

ANS: CThe pressure gradient changes in mitral stenosis lead to fluid backup into the lungs, resulting in hypoxemia and dyspnea. The other findings also may be associated with mitral valve disease but are not indicators of possible hypoxemia.

The nurse is obtaining a health history from a 24-year-old patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HC). Which information obtained by the nurse is most important? a. The patient has a history of a recent upper respiratory infection. b. The patient has a family history of coronary artery disease (CAD). c. The patient reports using cocaine a "couple of times" as a teenager. d. The patient's 29-year-old brother died from a sudden cardiac arrest.

ANS: DAbout half of all cases of HC have a genetic basis, and it is the most common cause of sudden cardiac death in otherwise healthy young people. The information about the patient's brother will be helpful in planning care (such as an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator [AICD

Which nursing intervention for a patient who had an open repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm 2 days previously is appropriate for the nurse to delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)? a. Monitor the quality and presence of the pedal pulses. b. Teach the patient the signs of possible wound infection. c. Check the lower extremities for strength and movement. d. Help the patient to use a pillow to splint while coughing.

ANS: DAssisting a patient who has already been taught how to cough is part of routine postoperative care and within the education and scope of practice for UAP. Patient teaching and assessment of essential postoperative functions such as circulation and movement should be done by RNs.

The nurse obtains a health history from a 65-year-old patient with a prosthetic mitral valve who has symptoms of infective endocarditis (IE). Which question by the nurse is most appropriate? a. "Do you have a history of a heart attack?" b. "Is there a family history of endocarditis?" c. "Have you had any recent immunizations?" d. "Have you had dental work done recently?"

ANS: DDental procedures place the patient with a prosthetic mitral valve at risk for infective endocarditis (IE). Myocardial infarction (MI), immunizations, and a family history of endocarditis are not risk factors for IE.

The nurse has identified a nursing diagnosis of acute pain related to inflammatory process for a patient with acute pericarditis. The priority intervention by the nurse for this problem is to a. teach the patient to take deep, slow breaths to control the pain. b. force fluids to 3000 mL/day to decrease fever and inflammation. c. remind the patient to request opioid pain medication every 4 hours. d. place the patient in Fowler's position, leaning forward on the overbed table.

ANS: DSitting upright and leaning forward frequently will decrease the pain associated with pericarditis. Forcing fluids will not decrease the inflammation or pain. Taking deep breaths will tend to increase pericardial pain. Opioids are not very effective at controlling pain caused by acute inflammatory conditions and are usually ordered PRN. The patient would receive scheduled doses of a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID).

Several hours after an open surgical repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the UAP reports to the nurse that urinary output for the past 2 hours has been 40 mL. The nurse notifies the health care provider and anticipates an order for a(n) a. hemoglobin count. b. additional antibiotic. c. decrease in IV infusion rate. d. blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level.

ANS: DThe decreased urine output suggests decreased renal perfusion, and monitoring of renal function is needed. There is no indication that infection is a concern, so antibiotic therapy and a WBC count are not needed. The IV rate may be increased because hypovolemia may be contributing to the patient's decreased urinary output.

A patient admitted with acute dyspnea is newly diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy. Which information will the nurse plan to teach the patient about managing this disorder? a. A heart transplant should be scheduled as soon as possible. b. Elevating the legs above the heart will help relieve dyspnea. c. Careful compliance with diet and medications will prevent heart failure. d. Notify the doctor about any symptoms of heart failure such as shortness of breath.

ANS: DThe patient should be instructed to notify the health care provider about any worsening of heart failure symptoms. Because dilated cardiomyopathy does not respond well to therapy, even patients with good compliance with therapy may have recurrent episodes of heart failure. Elevation of the legs above the heart will worsen symptoms (although this approach is appropriate for a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). The patient with terminal or end-stage cardiomyopathy may consider heart transplantation.

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`

B

the nurse is collecting a medication history from a client who is scheduled to have a cardiac catheterization. Which of the following medications taken by the client interacts with contrast material and places the client at risk for acute kidney injury? a. Atorvastatin b. Metformin c. Nitroglycerin d. Carvedilol

B

A client with a known abdominal aortic aneurysm reports dizziness and severe abdominal pain. The nurse assesses the client's blood pressure at 82/40 mmHg. What actions by the nurse are most important? a. Administer pain medication. b. Assess distal pulses every 10 minutes. c. Have the client sign a surgical consent. d. Notify the Rapid Response Team. e. Take vital signs every 10 minutes

B, D, E

Which of the following are signs of a rupturing AAA? Select all that apply: A) Increased BP B) Decreased Hct C) Low Back Pain D) Decreased BP E) Intermittent abdominal pain

B,C, and D. The patient is losing blood pressure and dropping hematocrit due to bleeding. Pain is a key sign of a rupturing (or close to rupturing) Aortic Abdominal Aneurysm. Usually, when rupturing, the pain becomes constant rather than intermittent.

The nurse provides discharge instructions for a 40-year-old woman who is newly diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. Which statement, if made by the patient, indicates that further teaching is necessary? A."I will avoid lifting heavy objects." B. "I can drink alcohol in moderation." C."My family will need to take a CPR course." D. "I will reduce stress by learning guided imagery."

B. "I can drink alcohol in moderation." Patients with cardiomyopathy should avoid alcohol consumption, especially in patients with alcohol-related dilated cardiomyopathy. Avoiding heavy lifting and stress, as well as family members learning CPR, are recommended teaching points.

The nurse performs discharge teaching for a 68-year-old man who is newly diagnosed with infective endocarditis with a history of IV substance abuse. Which statement by the patient indicates to the nurse that teaching was successful? A."I will need antibiotics before having any invasive procedure or surgery." B. "I will inform my dentist about my hospitalization for infective endocarditis." C."I should not be alarmed if I have difficulty breathing or pink-tinged sputum." D. "An elevated temperature is expected and can be managed by taking acetaminophen."

B. "I will inform my dentist about my hospitalization for infective endocarditis."Patients with infective endocarditis should inform their dental providers of their health history. Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for patients with a history of infective endocarditis who have certain dental procedures performed. Antibiotics are not indicated before genitourinary or gastrointestinal procedures unless an infection is present. Patients should immediately report the presence of fever or clinical manifestations indicating heart failure to their health care provider.

The patient had a history of rheumatic fever and has been diagnosed with mitral valve stenosis. The patient is planning to have a biologic valve replacement. What protective mechanisms should the nurse teach the patient about using after the valve replacement? A. Long-term anticoagulation therapy B. Antibiotic prophylaxis for dental care C. Exercise plan to increase cardiac tolerance D. Take β-adrenergic blockers to control palpitations.

B. Antibiotic prophylaxis for dental care The patient will need to use antibiotic prophylaxis for dental care to prevent endocarditis. Long-term anticoagulation therapy is not used with biologic valve replacement unless the patient has atrial fibrillation. An exercise plan to increase cardiac tolerance is needed for a patient with heart failure. Taking β-adrenergic blockers to control palpitations is prescribed for mitral valve prolapse, not valve replacement.

The nurse conducts a complete physical assessment on a patient admitted with infective endocarditis. Which finding is significant? A. Respiratory rate of 18 and heart rate of 90 B. Regurgitant murmur at the mitral valve area C. Heart rate of 94 and capillary refill time of 2 seconds D. Point of maximal impulse palpable in fourth intercostal space

B. Regurgitant murmur at the mitral valve area A regurgitant murmur of the aortic or mitral valves would indicate valvular disease, which is a complication of endocarditis. All the other findings are within normal limits.

A nurse is caring for a client who has valvular heart disease and is at risk for developing left-sided heart failure. Which of the following manifestations should alert the nurse the client is developing this condition? Anorexia Weight gain Breathlessness Distended abdomen

Breathlessness

A 25-year-old patient with a group A streptococcal pharyngitis does not want to take the antibiotics prescribed. What should the nurse tell the patient to encourage the patient to take the medications and avoid complications of the infection? A. "The complications of this infection will affect the skin, hair, and balance." B. "You will not feel well if you do not take the medicine and get over this infection." C. "Without treatment, you could get rheumatic fever, which can lead to rheumatic heart disease." D. "You may not want to take the antibiotics for this infection, but you will be sorry if you do not."

C. "Without treatment, you could get rheumatic fever, which can lead to rheumatic heart disease." Rheumatic fever (RF) is not common because of effective use of antibiotics to treat streptococcal infections. Without treatment, RF can occur and lead to rheumatic heart disease, especially in young adults. The complications do not include hair or balance. Saying that the patient will not feel well or that the patient will be sorry if the antibiotics are not taken is threatening to the patient and inappropriate for the nurse to say.

A 72-year-old man with a history of aortic stenosis is admitted to the emergency department. He reports severe left-sided chest pressure radiating to the jaw. Which medication, if ordered by the health care provider, should the nurse question? A. Aspirin B. Oxygen C. Nitroglycerin D. Morphine sulfate

C. Nitroglycerin Aspirin, oxygen, nitroglycerin, and morphine sulfate are all commonly used to treat acute chest pain suspected to be caused by myocardial ischemia. However, nitroglycerin should be used cautiously or avoided in patients with aortic stenosis as a significant reduction in blood pressure may occur. Chest pain can worsen because of a drop in blood pressure.

What nursing action should the nurse prioritize during the care of a patient who has recently recovered from rheumatic fever? A. Teach the patient how to manage his or her physical activity. B. Teach the patient about the need for ongoing anticoagulation. C. Teach the patient about the need for continuous antibiotic prophylaxis. D. Teach the patient about the need to maintain standard infection control procedures.

C. Teach the patient about the need for continuous antibiotic prophylaxis. Patients with a history of rheumatic fever frequently require ongoing antibiotic prophylaxis, an intervention that necessitates education. This consideration is more important than activity management in preventing recurrence. Anticoagulation is not indicated in this patient population. Standard precautions are indicated for all patients.

A 55-year-old female patient develops acute pericarditis after a myocardial infarction. It is most important for the nurse to assess for which clinical manifestation of a possible complication? A. Presence of a pericardial friction rub B. Distant and muffled apical heart sounds C. Increased chest pain with deep breathing D. Decreased blood pressure with tachycardia

D. Decreased blood pressure with tachycardia Cardiac tamponade is a serious complication of acute pericarditis. Signs and symptoms indicating cardiac tamponade include narrowed pulse pressure, tachypnea, tachycardia, a decreased cardiac output, and decreased blood pressure. The other symptoms are consistent with acute pericarditis.

The patient with pericarditis is complaining of chest pain. After assessment, which intervention should the nurse expect to implement to provide pain relief? A. Corticosteroids B. Morphine sulfate C. Proton pump inhibitor D. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs

D. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) will control pain and inflammation. Corticosteroids are reserved for patients already taking corticosteroids for autoimmune conditions or those who do not respond to NSAIDs. Morphine is not necessary. Proton pump inhibitors are used to decrease stomach acid to avoid the risk of GI bleeding from the NSAIDs.

A patient with a dissection of the arch of the aorta has a decreased LOC and weak carotid pulses. What should thenurse anticipate that initial treatment of the patient will include? a. Immediate surgery to replace the torn area with a graft b. Administration of anticoagulants to prevent embolization c. Administration of packed red blood cells (RBCs) to replace blood loss d. Administration of antihypertensives to maintain a mean arterial pressure of 70 to 80 mm Hg

a. Although most initial treatment for aortic dissection involves a period of lowering the BP and myocardial contractility to diminish the pulsatile forces in the aorta, immediate surgery is indicated when complications (such as occlusion of the carotid arteries) occur. Anticoagulants would prolong and intensify the bleeding and blood is administered only if the dissection ruptures.

While admitting a patient with pericarditis, the nurse will assess for which of the following signs, symptoms, and complications of this disorder? a. Pulsus paradoxus b. Prolonged PR intervals c. Widened pulse pressure d. Clubbing of the fingers

a. Pulsus paradoxusRationale: Pericarditis can lead to cardiac tamponade, an emergency situation. Pulsus paradoxus >10 mm Hg is a sign of cardiac tamponade that should be assessed at least every 4 hours in a patient with pericarditis.

The nurse evaluates that treatment for the patient with an uncomplicated aortic dissection is successful when whathappens? a. Pain is relieved. b. Surgical repair is completed.c. BP is increased to normal range.d. Renal output is maintained at 30 mL/hr.

a. Relief of pain is an indication that the dissection has stabilized and it may be treated conservatively for an extended time with drugs that lower the BP and decrease myocardial contractility. Surgery is usually indicated for dissection of the ascending aorta or if complications occur.

n preparation for AAA repair surgery, what should the nurse include in patient teaching? a. Prepare the bowel on the night before surgery with laxatives or an enema. b. Use moisturizing soap to clean the skin three times the day before surgery. c. Eat a high-protein and high-carbohydrate breakfast to help with healing postoperatively. d. Take the prescribed oral antibiotic the morning of surgery before going to the operating room.

a. Usually aortic surgery patients will have a bowel preparation, skin cleansing with an antimicrobial agent on the day before surgery, nothing by mouth after midnight on the day of the surgery, and IV antibiotics immediately before the incision is made. Patients with a history of cardiovascular disease will receive a β-adrenergic blocker preoperatively to reduce morbidity and mortality. Each surgeon's protocol may be different.

Which surgical therapy for AAA is most likely to have the postoperative complication of renal injury? a. Open aneurysm repair (OAR) above the level of the renal arteries b. Excising only the weakened area of the artery and suturing the artery closed c. Bifurcated graft used in aneurysm repair when the AAA extends into the iliac arteries d. Endovascular graft procedure with an aortic graft inside the aneurysm via the femoral artery

a. With the aortic cross-clamping proximal and distal to the aneurysm, the open aneurysm repair (OAR) above the renal artery may cause kidney injury from lack of blood flow during the surgery. The saccular aneurysm may involve excising only the weakened area of the artery and suturing the artery closed but this will not decrease renal blood flow. Renal blood flow will not be directly obstructed using the bifurcated graft or the minimally invasive endovascular aneurysm repair.

A patient has an admitting diagnosis of acute left-sided infective endocarditis. The nurse explains to the patient that this diagnosis is best confirmed with a. blood cultures b. a complete blood count c. a cardiac catheterization d. a transesophageal echocardiogram

a. blood culturesRationale: Although a complete blood cell count (CBC) will reveal a mild leukocytosis and erythrocyte sedimentation rates (ESRs) will be elevated in patients with infective endocarditis, these are nonspecific findings, and blood cultures are the primary diagnostic tool for infective endocarditis. Transesophageal echocardiograms can identify vegetations on valves but are used when blood cultures are negative, and cardiac catheterizations are used when surgical intervention is being considered.

A patient is diagnosed with mitral stenosis and new-onset atrial fibrillation. Which interventions could the nurse delegate to nursing assistant personnel (NAP) (select all that apply)? a. obtain and record daily weight b. determine apical-radial pulse rate c. observe for overt signs of bleeding d. obtain and record vital signs, including pulse oximetrye. teach the patient how to purchase a Medic Alert bracelet

a. obtain and record daily weightc. observe for overt signs of bleedingd. obtain and record vital signs, including pulse oximetryRationale: The nurse may delegate routine procedures such as obtaining weights and vital signs. The nurse may give specific directions to the nursing assistive personnel (NAP) to observe and report obvious signs of bleeding. The nurse cannot delegate teaching, assessment, or activities that require clinical judgment. Obtaining an apical-radial pulse rate is an assessment.

A 20-year old patient has acute infective endocarditis. While obtaining a nursing history, the nurse should ask the patient about which of the following (select all that apply) a. renal dialysis b. IV drug abuse c. recent dental work d. cardiac catheterization e. recent urinary tract infection

a. renal dialysisb. IV drug abusec. recent dental workd. cardiac catheterizatione. recent urinary tract infectionRationale: recent dental, urologic, surgical, or gynecologic procedures and history of IV drug abuse, heart disease, cardiac catheterization or surgery, renal dialysis, and infections all increase the risk of IE.

During preoperative preparation of the patient scheduled for an AAA, why should the nurse establish baseline data for the patient? a. All physiologic processes will be altered postoperatively. b. The cause of the aneurysm is a systemic vascular disease. c. Surgery will be canceled if any physiologic function is not normal. d. BP and HR will be maintained well below baseline levels during the postoperative period.

b. Because atherosclerosis is a systemic disease, the patient with an AAA is likely to have cardiac, pulmonary, cerebral, or lower extremity vascular problems that should be noted and monitored throughout the perioperative period. Postoperatively, the BP is balanced: high enough to keep adequate flow through the artery to prevent thrombosis but low enough to prevent bleeding at the surgical site.

A patient with a small AAA is not a good surgical candidate. What should the nurse teach the patient is one of the best ways to prevent expansion of the lesion? a. Avoid strenuous physical exertion. b. Control hypertension with prescribed therapy. c. Comply with prescribed anticoagulant therapy. d. Maintain a low-calcium diet to prevent calcification of the vessel.

b. Increased systolic blood pressure (SBP) continually puts pressure on the diseased area of the artery, promoting its expansion. Small aneurysms can be treated by decreasing blood pressure (BP), modifying atherosclerosis risk factors, and monitoring the size of the aneurysm. Anticoagulants are used during surgical treatment of aneurysms but physical activity is not known to increase their size. Calcium intake is not related to calcification in arteries.

The nurse conducts a complete physical assessment on a patient admitted with infective endocarditis. Which of the following findings are significant? a. Respiratory rate of 18 and heart rate of 90 b. Regurgitant murmur at the mitral valve area c. Heart rate of 94 and capillary refill time of 2 seconds d. Point of maximal impulse palpable in fourth intercostal space

b. Regurgitant murmur at the mitral valve area Rationale: A regurgitant murmur would indicate valvular disease, which can be a complication of endocarditis. All the other findings are within normal limits.

During the patient's acute postoperative period following repair of an AAA, the nurse should ensure that which goal is achieved? a. Hypothermia is maintained to decrease oxygen need. b. BP and all peripheral pulses are evaluated at least every hour. c. IV fluids are administered at a rate to maintain urine output of 100 mL/hr. d. The patient's BP is kept lower than baseline to prevent leaking at the incision line.

b. The BP and peripheral pulses are evaluated every hour in the acute postoperative period to ensure that BP is adequate and that extremities are being perfused. BP is kept within normal range. If BP is too low, thrombosis of the graft may occur; if it is too high, it may cause leaking or rupture at the suture line. Hypothermia is induced during surgery but the patient is rewarmed as soon as surgery is completed. Fluid replacement to maintain urine output at 100 mL/hr would increase the BP too much and only 30 mL/hr of urine is needed to show adequate renal perfusion.

A patient who is postoperative following repair of an AAA has been receiving IV fluids at 125 mL/hr continuously for the last 12 hours. Urine output for the last 4 hours has been 60 mL, 42 mL, 28 mL, and 20 mL, respectively. What is the priority action that the nurse should take? a. Monitor for a couple more hours. b. Contact the physician and report the decrease in urine output. c. Send blood for electrolytes, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine. d. Decrease the rate of infusion to prevent blood leakage at the suture line.

b. The decreasing urine output is evidence that either the patient needs volume or there is reduced renal blood flow. The physician will want to be notified as soon as possible of this change in condition and may order laboratory tests. The other options are incorrect.

Drugs that the nurse would expect to be prescribed for patients with a mechanical valve replacement include a. oral nitrates b. anticoagulants c. atrial antidysrhythmics d. beta adrenergic blocking agents

b. anticoagulantsRationale: Patients with mechanical valves have an increased risk for thrombus formation. Therefore prophylactic anticoagulation therapy is used to prevent thrombus formation and systemic or pulmonary embolization. Nitrates are contraindicated for the patient with aortic stenosis because an adequate preload is necessary to open the stiffened aortic valve. Antidysrhythmics are used only if dysrhythmias occur, and alpha or beta adrenergic blocking agents may be used to control the HR as needed.

A patient with acute pericarditis has markedly distended jugular veins, decreased BP, tachycardia, tachypnea, and muffled heart sounds. The nurse recognizes that these symptoms occur when a. the pericardial space is obliterated with scar tissue and thickened pericardium b. excess pericardial fluid compresses the heart and prevents adequate diastolic filling c. the parietal and visceral pericardial membranes adhere to each other, preventing normal myocardial contraction d. fibrin accumulation on the visceral pericardium infiltrates into the myocardium, creating generalized myocardial dysfunction.

b. excess pericardial fluid compresses the heart and prevents adequate diastolic fillingRationale: The patient is experiencing a cardiac tamponade that consists of excess fluid in the pericardial sac, which compresses the heart and the adjoining structures, preventing normal filling and cardiac output. Fibrin accumulation, a scarred and thickened pericardium, and adherent pericardial membranes occur in chronic constrictive pericarditis.

A patient with symptomatic mitral valve prolapse has atrial and ventricular dysrhythmias. In addition to monitoring for decreased cardiac output related to the dysrhythmias, an appropriate nursing diagnosis related to the dysthymias identified by the nurse is a. ineffective breathing pattern related to hypervolemia b. risk for injury related to dizziness and lightheadedness c. disturbed sleep pattern related to paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea d. ineffective self-health management related to lack of knowledge of prevention and treatment strategies

b. risk for injury related to dizziness and lightheadednessRationale: Dysrhythmias frequently cause palpitations, lightheadedness, and dizziness, and the patient should be carefully attended to prevent falls. Hypervolemia and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND) would be apparent in the patient with heart failure.

A surgical repair is planned for a patient who has a 5.5-cm abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). On physicalassessment of the patient, what should the nurse expect to find? a. Hoarseness and dysphagia b. Severe back pain with flank ecchymosis c. Presence of a bruit in the periumbilical area d. Weakness in the lower extremities progressing to paraplegia

c. Although most abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are asymptomatic, on physical examination a pulsatile mass in the periumbilical area slightly to the left of the midline may be detected and bruits may be audible with a stethoscope placed over the aneurysm. Hoarseness and dysphagia may occur with aneurysms of the ascending aorta and the aortic arch. Severe back pain with flank ecchymosis is usually present on rupture of an AAA and neurovascular loss in the lower extremities may occur from pressure of a thoracic aneurysm.

Following an ascending aortic aneurysm repair, what is an important finding that the nurse should report immediately to the health care provider? a. Shallow respirations and poor coughing b. Decreased drainage from the chest tubes c. A change in level of consciousness (LOC) and inability to speak d. Lower extremity pulses that are decreased from the preoperative baseline

c. During repair of an AAA, the blood supply to the carotid arteries may be interrupted, leading to neurologic complications manifested by a decreased level of consciousness (LOC) and altered pupil responses to light as well as changes in facial symmetry, speech, and movement of the upper extremities. The thorax is opened for ascending aortic surgery and shallow breathing, poor cough, and decreasing chest drainage are expected. Often, lower limb pulses are normally decreased or absent for a short time following surgery.

During the nursing assessment of the patient with a distal descending aortic dissection, what should the nurse expect the patient to manifest? a. Altered LOC with dizziness and weak carotid pulses b. A cardiac murmur characteristic of aortic valve insufficiency c. Severe "ripping" back or abdominal pain with decreasing urine output d. Severe hypertension and orthopnea and dyspnea of pulmonary edema

c. The onset of an aortic dissection involving the distal descending aorta is usually characterized by a sudden, severe, tearing pain in the back; as it progresses down the aorta, the kidneys, abdominal organs, and lower extremities may begin to show evidence of ischemia. Aortic dissections of the ascending aorta and aortic arch may affect the heart and circulation to the head, with the development of cerebral ischemia, murmurs, ventricular failure, and pulmonary edema.

A mechanical prosthetic valve is most likely to be preferred over a biologic valve for valve replacement in a a. 41-year-old man with peptic ulcer disease b. a 22-year-old woman who desires to have children c. a 35-year-old man with a history of seasonal asthma d. 62-year-old woman with early Alzheimer's disease

c. a 35-year-old man with a history of seasonal asthmaRationale: Mechanical prosthetic valves require long-term anticoagulation, and this is a factor in making a decision about the type of valve to use for replacement. Patients who cannot take anticoagulant therapy, such as women of childbearing age, patients at risk for hemorrhage, or patient who may not be compliant with anticoagulation therapy, may be candidates for the less durable biologic valves.

An RN is working with an LPN in caring for a group of patients on a cardiac telemetry unit. A patient with aortic stenosis has the nursing diagnosis of activity intolerance related to fatigue and exertional dyspnea. Which of these nursing activities could be delegated to the LPN? a. explain the reason for planning frequent periods of rest b. evaluate the patient's understanding of his disease process c. monitor BP, HR, RR, and SpO2 before, during, and after ambulation d. teach the patient which activities to choose that will gradually increase endurance

c. monitor BP, HR, RR, and SpO2 before, during, and after ambulationRationale: Monitoring VS before and after ambulation is the collection of data. Instructions should be provided to the LPN regarding what changes in these should be reported to the RN. Other actions listed are RN responsibilities.

The nurse is caring for a patient newly admitted with heart failure secondary to dilated cardiomyopathy. Which of the following interventions would be a priority? a. encourage caregivers to learn CPR b. consider a consultation with hospice for palliative care c. monitor the patient's response to prescribed medications d. arrange for the patient to enter a cardiac rehabilitation program

c. monitor the patient's response to prescribed medicationsRationale: Observing for signs and symptoms of worsening heart failure, dysrhythmias, and embolic formation in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy is essential, as is monitoring drug responsiveness. The goal of therapy is to keep the patient at an optimal level of functioning and out of the hospital. The priority intervention is to manage the acute symptoms with medications. The caregivers should learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before hospital discharge, and the patient may be referred to cardiac rehabilitation. Patients with dilated cardiomyopathy with progression to class IV stage D heart failure are candidates for palliative care.

A patient is scheduled for a percutaneous transluminal valvuloplasty. The nurse understands that this procedure is indicated for a. any patient with aortic regurgitation b. older patients with aortic regurgitation c. older patients with stenosis of any valve d. young adult patients with mild mitral valve stenosis

c. older patients with stenosis of any valveRationale: This procedure has been used for repair of pulmonic, tricuspid, and mitral stenosis, but usually for those patients that are poor surgical risks.

A patient is scheduled for an open surgical valvuloplasty of the mitral valve. In preparing the patient for surgery, the nurse recognizes that a. cardiopulmonary bypass is not required with this procedure b. valve repair is a palliative measure, whereas valve replacement is curative c. the operative mortality rate is lower in valve repair than in valve replacement d. patients with valve repair do not require postoperative anticoagulation as they do with valve replacement

c. the operative mortality rate is lower in valve repair than in valve replacementRationale: Repair of mitral or tricuspid valves has a lower operative mortality rate than does replacement and is becoming the surgical procedure of choice for these valvular diseases. Open repair is more precise than closed repair and requires cardiopulmonary bypass during surgery. All types of valve surgery are palliative, not curative, and patients require lifelong health care. Anticoagulation therapy is used for all valve surgery for at least some time postoperatively.

A patient is admitted to the hospital with a suspected acute pericarditis. To establish the presence of a pericardial friction rub, the nurse listens to the patient's chest a. while timing the sound with the respiratory pattern b. with the bell of the stethoscope at the apex of the heart c. with the diaphragm of the stethoscope at the lower left sternal bored of the chest d. with the diaphragm of the stethoscope to auscultate a high-pitched continuous rumbling sound

c. with the diaphragm of the stethoscope at the lower left sternal bored of the chestRationale: The stethoscope diaphragm at the left sternal border is the best method to use to hear the high-pitched, grating sound of a pericardial friction rub. The sound does not radiate widely and occurs with the heartbeat.

A thoracic aortic aneurysm is found when a patient has a routine chest x-ray. The nurse anticipates that additionaldiagnostic testing to determine the size and structure of the aneurysm will include which test? a. Angiography b. Ultrasonography c. Echocardiography d. Computed tomography (CT) scan

d. A computed tomography (CT) scan is the most accurate test to determine the diameter of the aneurysm and whether a thrombus is present. The other tests may also be used but the CT scan yields the most descriptive results.

Following discharge teaching with a male patient with an AAA repair, the nurse determines that further instruction isneeded when the patient makes which statement? a. "I should avoid heavy lifting." b. "I may have some sexual dysfunction as a result of the surgery." c. "I should maintain a low-fat and low-cholesterol diet to help keep the new graft open." d. "I should take the pulses in my extremities and let the doctor know if they get too fast or too slow."

d. Patients are taught to palpate peripheral pulses to identify changes in their quality or strength but the rate is not a significant factor in peripheral perfusion. The color and temperature of the extremities are also important for patients to observe. The remaining statements are all true.

When teaching a patient with endocarditis how to prevent recurrence of the infection, the nurse instructs the patient to a. start on antibiotic therapy when exposed to persons with infections b. take one aspirin a day to prevent vegetative lesions from forming around the valves c. always maintain continuous antibiotic therapy to prevent the development of any systemic infection d. obtain prophylactic antibiotic therapy before certain invasive medical or dental procedures (e.g. dental cleaning)

d. obtain prophylactic antibiotic therapy before certain invasive medical or dental procedures (e.g. dental cleaning)Rationale: Prophylactic antibiotic therapy should be initiated before invasive dental, medical, or surgical procedures to prevent recurrence of endocarditis. Continuous antibiotic therapy is indicated only in patients with implanted devices or ongoing invasive procedures. Symptoms of infection should be treated promptly, but antibiotics are not used for exposure to infection.

A patient with acute pericarditis has a nursing diagnosis of pain related to pericardial inflammation. An appropriate nursing intervention for the patient is a. administering opioids as prescribed on an around the clock schedule b. promoting progressive relaxation exercises with the use of deep, slow breathing c. positioning the patient on the right side with the head of the bed elevated 15 degrees d. positioning the patient in Fowler's position with a padded over the bed table for the patient to lean on

d. positioning the patient in Fowler's position with a padded over the bed table for the patient to lean onRationale: Relief from pericardial pain is often obtained by sitting up and leaning forward. Pain is increased by lying flat. The pain has a sharp, pleuritic quality that changes with respiration, and patients take shallow breaths. Anti-inflammatory medications may also be used to help control pain, but opioids are not usually indicated.

Which clinical finding would most likely indicate decreased cardiac output in a patient with aortic valve regurgitation? a. reduction in peripheral edema and weights b. carotid venous distention and new-onset atrial fibrillation c. significant pulses paradoxus and diminished peripheral pulses d. shortness of breath on minimal exertion and a diastolic murmur

d. shortness of breath on minimal exertion and a diastolic murmurRationale: Clinical manifestations of aortic regurgitation (AR) that indicate decreased cardiac output include severe dyspnea, chest pain, and hypotension. Other manifestations of chronic AR include water-hammer pulse (i.e., a strong, quick beat that collapses immediately), soft or absent S1, presence of S3 or S4, and soft, high-pitched diastolic murmur. A low-pitched diastolic murmur may be heard in severe AR. Early manifestations may include exertional dyspnea, orthopnea, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea.

When performing discharge teaching for the patient following a mechanical valve replacement, the nurse determines that further instruction is needed when the patient says, a. I may begin an exercise program to gradually increase my cardiac tolerance b. I will always need to have my blood checked once a month for its clotting function c. I should wear a medic alert bracelet to identify my valve and anticoagulant therapy d. the biggest risk I have during invasive health procedures is bleeding because of my anticoagulants

d. the biggest risk I have during invasive health procedures is bleeding because of my anticoagulantsRationale: The greatest risk to a patient who has an artificial valve is the development of endocarditis with invasive medical or dental procedures; before any of these procedures, antibiotic prophylaxis is necessary to prevent infection. Health care providers must be informed of the presence of the valve and the anticoagulation therapy, but the most important factor is using antibiotic prophylaxis before invasive procedures.

A patient with aortic valve endocarditis develops dyspnea, crackles in the lungs, and restlessness. The nurse suspects that the patient is experiencing a. vegetative embolization to the coronary arteries b. pulmonary embolization from valve vegetations c. nonspecific manifestations that accompany infectious diseases d. valvular incompetence with possible infectious invasion of the myocardium

d. valvular incompetence with possible infectious invasion of the myocardiumRationale: The dyspnea, crackles, and restlessness the patient is manifesting are symptoms of heart failure and decreased cardiac output (CO) that occurs in up to 80% of patients with aortic valve endocarditis as a result of aortic valve incompetence. Vegetative embolization from the aortic valve occurs throughout the arterial system and may affect any body organ. Pulmonary emboli occur in right-sided endocarditis.