Chapter 25 - Assessment of Cardiovascular Function

The nurse is caring for a patient with a diagnosis of pericarditis. Where does the nurse understand the inflammation is located?

thin fibrous sac encasing the heart

The cardiac care nurse is reviewing the conduction system of the heart. The nurse is aware that electrical conduction of the heart usually originates in the SA node and then proceeds in what sequence? A)SA node to bundle of His to AV node to Purkinje fibers B)SA node to AV node to Purkinje fibers to bundle of His C)SA node to bundle of His to Purkinje fibers to AV node D)SA node to AV node to bundle of His to Purkinje fibers

Ans: SA node to AV node to bundle of His to Purkinje fibers Feedback: The normal electrophysiological conduction route is SA node to AV node to bundle of HIS to Purkinje fibers.

While auscultating a patient's heart sounds, the nurse hears an extra heart sound immediately after the second heart sound (S2). An audible S3 would be considered an expected finding in what patient? A)An older adult B)A 20-year-old patient C)A patient who has undergone valve replacement D)A patient who takes a beta-adrenergic blocker

Ans: A 20-year-old patient Feedback: S3 represents a normal finding in children and adults up to 35 or 40 years of age. In these cases, it is called a physiologic S3. It is an abnormal finding in a patient with an artificial valve, an older adult, or a patient who takes a beta blocker.

The nurse working on a cardiac care unit is caring for a patient whose stroke volume has increased. The nurse is aware that afterload influences a patient's stroke volume. The nurse recognizes that afterload is increased when there is what? A)Arterial vasoconstriction B)Venous vasoconstriction C)Arterial vasodilation D)Venous vasodilation

Ans: Arterial vasoconstriction Feedback: Arterial vasoconstriction increases the systemic vascular resistance, which increases the afterload. Venous vasoconstriction decreases preload thereby decreasing stroke volume. Venous vasodilation increases preload.

The physician has ordered a high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) drawn on a patient. The results of this test will allow the nurse to evaluate the role of what process that is implicated in the development of atherosclerosis? A)Immunosuppression B)Inflammation C)Infection D)Hemostasis

Inflammation Feedback: High-sensitivity CRP is a protein produced by the liver in response to systemic inflammation. Inflammation is thought to play a role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis.

The nurse is performing an assessment of the patient's heart. Where would the nurse locate the apical pulse if the heart is in a normal position?

Left 5th intercostal space at the midclavicular line

A critical care nurse is caring for a patient with a pulmonary artery catheter in place. What does this catheter measure that is particularly important in critically ill patients? A)Pulmonary artery systolic pressure B)Right ventricular afterload C)Pulmonary artery pressure D)Left ventricular preload

Left ventricular preload Feedback: Monitoring of the pulmonary artery diastolic and pulmonary artery wedge pressures is particularly important in critically ill patients because it is used to evaluate left ventricular filling pressures (i.e., left ventricular preload). This device does not directly measure the other listed aspects of cardiac function.

The nurse is administering a beta blocker to a patient in order to decrease automaticity. Which medication will the nurse administer?

Metoprolol

The nurse is assessing a patient's electrocardiogram (ECG). What phase does the nurse determine is the resting phase before the next depolarization?

Phase 4

The nurse is educating a patient at risk for atherosclerosis. What nonmodifiable risk factors does the nurse identify for the patient?

Positive family history

The nurse uses which term for the normal pacemaker of the heart?

Sinoatrial (SA) node The sinoatrial node is the primary pacemaker of the heart. The AV node coordinates the incoming electrical impulses from the atria and, after a slight delay, relays the impulse to the ventricles. The Purkinje fibers rapidly conduct the impulses through the thick walls of the ventricles.

11. The nurse is assessing a patient who reports feeling "light-headed." When obtaining orthostatic vital signs, what does the nurse determine is a significant finding?

a heart rate of 20 bpm above the resting rate

Which term describes the ability of the heart to initiate an electrical impulse?

automaticity Automaticity is the ability of specialized electrical cells of the cardiac conduction system to initiate an electrical impulse. Contractility refers to the ability of the specialized electrical cells of the cardiac conduction system to contract in response to an electrical impulse. Conductivity refers to the ability of the specialized electrical cells of the cardiac conduction system to transmit an electrical impulse from one cell to another. Excitability refers to the ability of the specialized electrical cells of the cardiac conduction system to respond to an electrical impulse.

For a client who has undergone peripheral arteriography, how should the nurse assess the adequacy of peripheral circulation?

checking peripheral pulses Peripheral arteriography is used to diagnose occlusive arterial disease in smaller arteries. The nurse observes the client for bleeding and cardiac dysrhythmias and assesses the adequacy of peripheral circulation by frequently checking the peripheral pulses. Hemodynamic monitoring is used to assess the volume and pressure of blood in the heart and vascular system.

The nurse cares for a client in the ICU diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD). Which assessment data indicates the client is experiencing a decrease in cardiac output?

disorientation, 20 mL of urine over the last 2 hours Assessment findings associated with reduced cardiac output include reduced pulse pressure, hypotension, tachycardia, reduced urine output, lethargy, or disorientation.

Age-related changes associated with the cardiac system include

endocardial fibrosis. Age-related changes associated with the cardiac system include: endocardial fibrosis, increased size of the left atrium, a decreasing number of SA node cells, and myocardial thickening.

The nurse cares for a client in the ICU who is being monitored with a central venous pressure (CVP) catheter. The nurse records the client's CVP as 8 mm Hg and recognizes that this finding indicates the client is experiencing which condition?

hypervolemia The normal CVP is 2 to 6 mm Hg. A CVP greater than 6 mm Hg indicates an elevated right ventricular preload. Many problems can cause an elevated CVP, but the most common is hypervolemia (excessive fluid circulating in the body) or right-sided HF. In contrast, a low CVP (<2 mm Hg) indicates reduced right-ventricular preload, which is most often from hypovolemia.

Age-related changes associated with the cardiac system include which conditions? Select all that apply.

increased size of the left atrium endocardial fibrosis Age-related changes associated with the cardiac system include endocardial fibrosis, increased size of the left atrium, decreased number of SA node cells, and myocardial thickening.

The nurse cares for a client prescribed warfarin orally. The nurse reviews the client's prothrombin time (PT) level to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication. Which laboratory values should the nurse also evaluate?

international normalized ratio (INR) The INR, reported with the PT, provides a standard method for reporting PT levels and eliminates the variation of PT results from different laboratories. The INR, rather than the PT alone, is used to monitor the effectiveness of warfarin. The therapeutic range for INR is 2 to 3.5, although specific ranges vary based on diagnosis. The other laboratory values are not used to evaluate the effectiveness of warfarin.

The nurse auscultates the PMI (point of maximal impulse) at which anatomic location?

left midclavicular line, fifth intercostal space The left ventricle is responsible for the apical impulse or the point of maximum impulse, which is normally palpable in the left midclavicular line of the chest wall at the fifth intercostal space. The right ventricle lies anteriorly, just beneath the sternum. Use of inches to identify the location of the PMI is inappropriate based on variations in human anatomy. Auscultation below and to the left of the xiphoid process will detect gastrointestinal sounds, but not the PMI.

Central venous pressure is measured in which heart chamber?

right atrium The pressure in the right atrium is used to assess right ventricular function and venous blood return to the heart. The left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the pulmonary circulation. The left ventricle receives oxygenated blood from the left atrium. The right ventricle is not the central collecting chamber of venous circulation.

The patient has a heart rate of 72 bpm with a regular rhythm. Where does the nurse determine the impulse arises from?

sinoatrial (SA) node

The nurse prepares to apply ECG electrodes to a male client who requires continuous cardiac monitoring. Which action should the nurse complete to optimize skin adherence and conduction of the heart's electrical current?

Clip the client's chest hair prior to applying the electrodes. The nurse should complete the following actions when applying cardiac electrodes: (1) Clip (do not shave) hair from around the electrode site, if needed; (2) if the client is diaphoretic (sweaty), apply a small amount of benzoin to the skin, avoiding the area under the center of the electrode; (3) debride the skin surface of dead cells with soap and water and dry well (or as recommended by the manufacturer); (4) change the electrodes every 24 to 48 hours (or as recommended by the manufacturer); (5) examine the skin for irritation and apply the electrodes to different locations.

A critical care nurse is caring for a patient with a hemodynamic monitoring system in place. For what complications should the nurse assess? Select all that apply. A)Pneumothorax B)Infection C)Atelectasis D)Bronchospasm E)Air embolism

Pneumothorax, Infection, Air embolism Feedback: Complications from use of hemodynamic monitoring systems are uncommon, but can include pneumothorax, infection, and air embolism. Complications of hemodynamic monitoring systems do not include atelectasis or bronchospasm.

The nurse is assessing heart sounds in a patient with heart failure. An abnormal heart sound is detected early in diastole. How would the nurse document this?

S3

A patient's declining cardiac status has been attributed to decreased cardiac action potential. Interventions will be aimed at restoring what aspect of cardiac physiology? A)The cycle of depolarization and repolarization B)The time it takes from the firing of the SA node to the contraction of the ventricles C)The time between the contraction of the atria and the contraction of the ventricles D)The cycle of the firing of the AV node and the contraction of the myocardium

The cycle of depolarization and repolarization Feedback: This exchange of ions creates a positively charged intracellular space and a negatively charged extracellular space that characterizes the period known as depolarization. Once depolarization is complete, the exchange of ions reverts to its resting state; this period is known as repolarization. The repeated cycle of depolarization and repolarization is called the cardiac action potential.

A patient with a complex cardiac history is scheduled for transthoracic echocardiography. What should the nurse teach the patient in anticipation of this diagnostic procedure? A)The test is noninvasive, and nothing will be inserted into the patient's body. B)The patient's pain will be managed aggressively during the procedure. C)The test will provide a detailed profile of the heart's electrical activity. D)The patient will remain on bed rest for 1 to 2 hours after the test.

The test is noninvasive, and nothing will be inserted into the patient's body. Feedback: Before transthoracic echocardiography, the nurse informs the patient about the test, explaining that it is painless. The test does not evaluate electrophysiology and bed rest is unnecessary after the procedure.

Which area of the heart is located at the third intercostal (IC) space to the left of the sternum?

erb point Erb point is located at the third IC space to the left of the sternum. The aortic area is located at the second IC space to the right of the sternum. The pulmonic area is at the second IC space to the left of the sternum. The epigastric area is located below the xiphoid process.

Which symptom is an early warning sign of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and heart failure (HF)?

fatigue Fatigue is an early warning symptom of ACS, heart failure, and valvular disease. Other signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease are hypotension, change in level of consciousness, and weight gain.

The nurse cares for a client with diabetes who is scheduled for a cardiac catheterization. Prior to the procedure, it is most important for the nurse to ask which question?

"Are you allergic to shellfish?" Radiopaque contrast agents are used to visualize the coronary arteries. Some contrast agents contain iodine, and the client is assessed before the procedure for previous reactions to contrast agents or allergies to iodine-containing substances (e.g., seafood). If the client has a suspected or known allergy to the substance, antihistamines or methylprednisolone may be administered before the procedure. Although the other questions are important to ask the client, it is most important to ascertain if the client has an allergy to shellfish.

The nurse reviews discharge instructions with a client who underwent a left groin cardiac catheterization 8 hours ago. Which instructions should the nurse include?

"Do not bend at the waist, strain, or lift heavy objects for the next 24 hours." The nurse should instruct the client to follow these guidelines: For the next 24 hours, do not bend at the waist, strain, or lift heavy objects if the artery of the groin was used; contact the primary provider if swelling, new bruising or pain from the procedure puncture site, or a temperature of 101°F or more occur. If bleeding occurs, lie down (groin approach) and apply firm pressure to the puncture site for 10 minutes. Notify the primary provider as soon as possible and follow instructions. If there is a large amount of bleeding, call 911. The client should not drive to the hospital.

A patient had a cardiac catheterization and is now in the recovery area. What nursing interventions should be included in the plan of care? (Select all that apply.)

- Assessing peripheral pulses in affected extremity - Checking insertion site for hematoma formation - Evaluating temperature & color in affected extremity

The nurse is calculating a cardiac patient's pulse pressure. If the patient's blood pressure is 122/76 mm Hg, what is the patient's pulse pressure? A)46 mm Hg B)99 mm Hg C)198 mm Hg D)76 mm Hg

Ans: 46 mm Hg Feedback: Pulse pressure is the difference between the systolic and diastolic pressure. In this case, this value is 46 mm Hg.

A resident of a long-term care facility has complained to the nurse of chest pain. What aspect of the resident's pain would be most suggestive of angina as the cause? A)The pain is worse when the resident inhales deeply. B)The pain occurs immediately following physical exertion. C)The pain is worse when the resident coughs. D)The pain is most severe when the resident moves his upper body.

Ans: The pain occurs immediately following physical exertion. Feedback: Chest pain associated with angina is often precipitated by physical exertion. The other listed aspects of chest pain are more closely associated with noncardiac etiologies.

The nurse is caring for a patient admitted with unstable angina. The laboratory result for the initial troponin I is elevated in this patient. The nurse should recognize what implication of this assessment finding? A)This is only an accurate indicator of myocardial damage when it reaches its peak in 24 hours. B)Because the patient has a history of unstable angina, this is a poor indicator of myocardial injury. C)This is an accurate indicator of myocardial injury. D)This result indicates muscle injury, but does not specify the source.

Ans: This is an accurate indicator of myocardial injury. Feedback: Troponin I, which is specific to cardiac muscle, is elevated within hours after myocardial injury. Even with a diagnosis of unstable angina, this is an accurate indicator of myocardial injury.

The nurse cares for a client with clubbing of the fingers and toes. The nurse should complete which action given these findings?

Obtain an oxygen saturation level. Clubbing of the fingers and toes indicates chronic hemoglobin desaturation (decreased oxygen supply) and is associated with congenital heart disease. The nurse should assess the client's O2 saturation level and intervene as directed. The other assessments are not indicated.

Which area of the heart that is located at the third intercostal space to the left of the sternum?

Erb point Erb point is located at the third intercostal space to the left of the sternum. The aortic area is located at the second intercostal space to the right of the sternum. The pulmonic area is at the second intercostal space to the left of the sternum. The epigastric area is located below the xiphoid process.

A patient has been scheduled for cardiovascular computed tomography (CT) with contrast. To prepare the patient for this test, what action should the nurse perform? A)Keep the patient NPO for at least 6 hours prior to the test. B)Establish peripheral IV access. C)Limit the patient's activity for 2 hours before the test. D)Teach the patient to perform incentive spirometry.

Establish peripheral IV access. Feedback: An IV is necessary if contrast is to be used to enhance the images of the CT. The patient does not need to fast or limit his or her activity. Incentive spirometry is not relevant to this diagnostic test.

The nurse is reviewing the results of the patient's echocardiogram and observes that the ejection fraction is 35%. The nurse anticipates that the patient will receive treatment for what condition?

Heart Failure

A patient's heart rate is observed to be 140 bpm on the monitor. Which complication should the nurse closely monitor the patient for?

Myocardial Ischemia (MI)

The student nurse is preparing a teaching plan for a patient being discharged status post MI. What should the student include in the teaching plan? (Mark all that apply.) A)Need for careful monitoring for cardiac symptoms B)Need for carefully regulated exercise C)Need for dietary modifications D)Need for early resumption of prediagnosis activity E)Need for increased fluid intake

Need for careful monitoring for cardiac symptoms, Need for carefully regulated exercise, Need for dietary modifications Feedback: Dietary modifications, exercise, weight loss, and careful monitoring are important strategies for managing three major cardiovascular risk factors: hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes. There is no need to increase fluid intake and activity should be slowly and deliberately increased.

The nurse is caring for a patient who is undergoing an exercise stress test. Prior to reaching the target heart rate, the patient develops chest pain. What is the nurse's most appropriate response? A)Administer sublingual nitroglycerin to allow the patient to finish the test. B)Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation. C)Administer analgesia and slow the test. D)Stop the test and monitor the patient closely.

Stop the test and monitor the patient closely. Feedback: Signs of myocardial ischemia would necessitate stopping the test. CPR would only be necessary if signs of cardiac or respiratory arrest were evident.

A nurse prepares to assess a client for postural blood pressure changes. Which action indicates the nurse needs further education?

letting 30 seconds elapse after each position change before measuring BP and HR The following steps are recommended when assessing clients for postural hypotension: (1) Position the client supine for 10 minutes before taking the initial BP and HR measurements; (2) reposition the client to a sitting position with legs in the dependent position, and wait 2 minutes to reassess both BP and HR measurements; (3) if the client is symptom free or has no significant decreases in systolic or diastolic BP, assist the client into a standing position, obtain measurements immediately and recheck in 2 minutes; (4) continue measurements every 2 minutes for a total of 10 minutes to rule out postural hypotension. Return the client to supine position if postural hypotension is detected or if the client becomes symptomatic. Document HR and BP measured in each position (e.g., supine, sitting, and standing) and any signs or symptoms that accompanied the postural changes.

The balloon on the distal tip of a pulmonary artery catheter is inflated and the pressure is measured. What is the term for the measurement obtained?

pulmonary artery wedge pressure When the balloon is inflated, the tip of the catheter floats into smaller branches of the pulmonary artery until it can no longer be passed. The pressure is recorded, reflecting left-atrial pressure and left-ventricular end-diastolic pressure. Central venous pressure is measured in the right atrium. Pulmonary artery pressure is measured when the balloon tip is not inflated. Cardiac output is determined through thermodilution, which involves injection of fluid into the pulmonary artery catheter.

The nurse is assessing a patient's blood pressure. What does the nurse document as the difference between the systolic and the diastolic pressure?

pulse pressure

What does decreased pulse pressure reflect?

reduced stroke volume Decreased pulse pressure reflects reduced stroke volume and ejection velocity or obstruction to blood flow during systole. Increased pulse pressure would indicate reduced distensibility of the arteries, along with bradycardia.

Which term describes the amount of blood ejected per heartbeat?

stroke volume (SV) Stroke volume is determined by preload, afterload, and contractility of the heart. Cardiac output is the amount of blood pumped by each ventricle during a given period and is computed by multiplying the stroke volume of the heart by the heart rate. Ejection fraction is the percentage of the end-diastolic volume that is ejected with each stroke, measured at 42% to 50% in the normal heart. Afterload is defined as the pressure that the ventricular myocardium must overcome to eject blood during systole and is one of the determinants of stroke volume.

A patient tells the nurse, "I was straining to have a bowel movement and felt like I was going to faint. I took my pulse and it was so slow." What does the nurse determine has most likely occurred with this patient?

the patient had a vagal response

The nurse observes a certified nursing assistant (CNA) obtaining a blood pressure reading with a cuff that is too small for the patient. The nurse informs the CNA that using a cuff that is too small can affect the reading results in what way?

the result will be falsely elevated

A patient is going through menopause and asks the nurse about estrogen replacement for its cardioprotective benefits. What is the best response by the nurse?

"Current evidence indicates that estrogen is ineffective as a cardioprotectant; estrogen is actually potentially harmful and is no longer a recommended therapy"

The nurse screens a client prior to a magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) of the heart. Which action should the nurse complete prior to the client undergoing the procedure? Select all that apply.

-Remove the client's Transderm Nitro patch. -Remove the client's jewelry. -Offer the client a headset to listen to music during the procedure. Transdermal patches that contain a heat-conducting aluminized layer (e.g., NicoDerm, Androderm, Transderm Nitro, Transderm Scop, Catapres-TTS) must be removed before MRA to prevent burning of the skin. A client who is claustrophobic may need to receive a mild sedative before undergoing an MRA. During an MRA, the client is positioned supine on a table that is placed into an enclosed imager or tube containing the magnetic field. Clients are instructed to remove any jewelry, watches, or other metal items (e.g., ECG leads). An intermittent clanking or thumping that can be annoying is generated by the magnetic coils, so the client may be offered a headset to listen to music.

The nurse cares for a client with an intra-arterial blood pressure monitoring device. The nurse recognizes the most preventable complication associated with hemodynamic monitoring includes which condition?

catheter-related bloodstream infections Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) are the most common preventable complication associated with hemodynamic monitoring systems. Comprehensive guidelines for the prevention of these infections have been published by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Complications from use of hemodynamic monitoring systems are uncommon and can include pneumothorax, infection, and air embolism. A pneumothorax may occur during the insertion of catheters using a central venous approach (CVP and pulmonary artery catheters). Air emboli can be introduced into the vascular system if the stopcocks attached to the pressure transducers are mishandled during blood drawing, administration of medications, or other procedures that require opening the system to air.

What is the term for the ability of the cardiac muscle to shorten in response to an electrical impulse?

contractility Contractility is the ability of the cardiac muscle to shorten in response to an electrical impulse. Depolarization is the electrical activation of a cell caused by the influx of sodium into the cell while potassium exits the cell. Repolarization is the return of the cell to the resting state, caused by reentry of potassium into the cell while sodium exits the cell. Diastole is the period of ventricular relaxation resulting in ventricular filling.

For both outpatients and inpatients scheduled for diagnostic procedures of the cardiovascular system, the nurse performs a thorough initial assessment to establish accurate baseline data. Which data is necessary to collect if the client is experiencing chest pain?

description of the pain Explanation: If the client is experiencing chest pain, a history of its location, frequency, and duration is necessary. A description of the pain is needed, including whether it radiates to a particular area, what precipitates its onset, and what brings relief. The nurse weighs the client and measures vital signs. The nurse may measure blood pressure in both arms and compare findings. The nurse assesses apical and radial pulses, noting rate, quality, and rhythm. The nurse also checks peripheral pulses in the lower extremities.

The nurse correctly identifies which data as an example of blood pressure and heart rate measurements in a client with postural hypotension?

supine: BP 120/70 mm Hg, HR 70 bpm; sitting: BP 100/55 mm Hg, HR 90 bpm; standing: BP 98/52 mm Hg, HR 94 bpm Postural (orthostatic) hypotension is a sustained decrease of at least 20 mm Hg in systolic BP or 10 mm Hg in diastolic BP within 3 minutes of moving from a lying or sitting position to a standing position. The following is an example of BP and HR measurements in a client with postural hypotension: supine: BP 120/70 mm Hg, HR 70 bpm; sitting: BP 100/55 mm Hg, HR 90 bpm; standing: BP 98/52 mm Hg, HR 94 bpm. Normal postural responses that occur when a person moves from a lying to a standing position include (1) a HR increase of 5 to 20 bpm above the resting rate; (2) an unchanged systolic pressure, or a slight decrease of up to 10 mm Hg; and (3) a slight increase of 5 mm Hg in diastolic pressure.

During auscultation of the lungs, what would a nurse note when assessing a client with left-sided heart failure?

wheezes with wet lung sounds If the left side of the heart fails to pump efficiently, blood backs up into the pulmonary veins and lung tissue. For abnormal and normal breath sounds, the nurse auscultates the lungs. With left-sided congestive heart failure, auscultation reveals a crackling sound, wheezes, and gurgles. Wet lung sounds are accompanied by dyspnea and an effort to sit up to breathe. With left-sided congestive heart failure, auscultation does not reveal a high pitched sound.

The patient has a homocysteine level ordered. What aspects of this test should inform the nurse's care? Select all that apply. A)A 12-hour fast is necessary before drawing the blood sample. B)Recent inactivity can depress homocysteine levels. C)Genetic factors can elevate homocysteine levels. D)A diet low in folic acid elevates homocysteine levels. E)An ECG should be performed immediately before drawing a sample.

A 12-hour fast is necessary before drawing the blood sample, Genetic factors can elevate homocysteine levels, A diet low in folic acid elevates homocysteine levels Feedback: Genetic factors and a diet low in folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 are associated with elevated homocysteine levels. A 12-hour fast is necessary before drawing a blood sample for an accurate serum measurement. An ECG is unnecessary and recent inactivity does not influence the results of the test.

The nurse is caring for a patient who has a history of heart disease. What factor should the nurse identify as possibly contributing to a decrease in cardiac output? A)A change in position from standing to sitting B)A heart rate of 54 bpm C)A pulse oximetry reading of 94% D)An increase in preload related to ambulation

Ans: A heart rate of 54 bpm Feedback: Cardiac output is computed by multiplying the stroke volume by the heart rate. Cardiac output can be affected by changes in either stroke volume or heart rate, such as a rate of 54 bpm. An increase in preload will lead to an increase in stroke volume. A pulse oximetry reading of 94% does not indicate hypoxemia, as hypoxia can decrease contractility. Transitioning from standing to sitting would more likely increase rather than decrease cardiac output.

When hemodynamic monitoring is ordered for a patient, a catheter is inserted into the appropriate blood vessel or heart chamber. When assessing a patient who has such a device in place, the nurse should check which of the following components? Select all that apply. A)A transducer B)A flush system C)A leveler D)A pressure bag E)An oscillator

Ans: A transducer, A flush system, A pressure bag Feedback: To perform hemodynamic monitoring, a CVP, pulmonary artery, or arterial catheter is introduced into the appropriate blood vessel or heart chamber. It is connected to a pressure monitoring system that has several components. Included among these are a transducer, a flush system, and a pressure bag. A pressure monitoring system does not have a leveler or an oscillator.

A lipid profile has been ordered for a patient who has been experiencing cardiac symptoms. When should a lipid profile be drawn in order to maximize the accuracy of results? A)As close to the end of the day as possible B)After a meal high in fat C)After a 12-hour fast D)Thirty minutes after a normal meal

Ans: After a 12-hour fast Feedback: Although cholesterol levels remain relatively constant over 24 hours, the blood specimen for the lipid profile should be obtained after a 12-hour fast.

The nurse is doing discharge teaching with a patient who has coronary artery disease. The patient asks why he has to take an aspirin every day if he doesn't have any pain. What would be the nurse's best response? A)"Taking an aspirin every day is an easy way to help restore the normal function of your heart." B)"An aspirin a day can help prevent some of the blockages that can cause chest pain or heart attacks." C)"Taking an aspirin every day is a simple way to make your blood penetrate your heart more freely." D)"An aspirin a day eventually helps your blood carry more oxygen that it would otherwise."

Ans: An aspirin a day can help prevent some of the blockages that can cause chest pain or heart attacks. Feedback: An aspirin a day is a common nonprescription medication that improves outcomes in patients with CAD due to its antiplatelet action. It does not affect oxygen carrying capacity or perfusion. Aspirin does not restore cardiac function.

The nurse is caring for a patient admitted with angina who is scheduled for cardiac catheterization. The patient is anxious and asks the reason for this test. What is the best response? A)"Cardiac catheterization is usually done to assess how blocked or open a patients coronary arteries are." B)"Cardiac catheterization is most commonly done to detect how efficiently a patient's heart muscle contracts." C)"Cardiac catheterization is usually done to evaluate cardiovascular response to stress." D)"Cardiac catheterization is most commonly done to evaluate cardiac electrical activity."

Ans: Cardiac catheterization is usually done to assess how blocked or open a patients coronary arteries are. Feedback: Cardiac catheterization is usually used to assess coronary artery patency to determine if revascularization procedures are necessary. A thallium stress test shows myocardial ischemia after stress. An ECG shows the electrical activity of the heart.

The nurse is caring for an acutely ill patient who has central venous pressure monitoring in place. What intervention should be included in the care plan of a patient with CVP in place? A)Apply antibiotic ointment to the insertion site twice daily. B)Change the site dressing whenever it becomes visibly soiled. C)Perform passive range-of-motion exercises to prevent venous stasis. D)Aspirate blood from the device once daily to test pH.

Ans: Change the site dressing whenever it becomes visibly soiled. Feedback: Gauze dressings should be changed every 2 days or transparent dressings at least every 7 days and whenever dressings become damp, loosened, or visibly soiled. Passive ROM exercise is not indicated and it is unnecessary and inappropriate to aspirate blood to test it for pH. Antibiotic ointments are contraindicated.

A critically ill patient is admitted to the ICU. The physician decides to use intra-arterial pressure monitoring. After this intervention is performed, what assessment should the nurse prioritize in the plan of care? A)Fluctuations in core body temperature B)Signs and symptoms of esophageal varices C)Signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome D)Perfusion distal to the insertion site

Ans: Perfusion distal to the insertion site Feedback: The radial artery is the usual site selected. However, placement of a catheter into the radial artery can further impede perfusion to an area that has poor circulation. As a result, the tissue distal to the cannulated artery can become ischemic or necrotic. Vigilant assessment is thus necessary. Alterations in temperature and the development of esophageal varices or compartment syndrome are not high risks.

The nurse is relating the deficits in a patient's synchronization of the atrial and ventricular events to his diagnosis. What are the physiologic characteristics of the nodal and Purkinje cells that provide this synchronization? Select all that apply. A)Loop connectivity B)Excitability C)Automaticity D)Conductivity E)Independence

Ans: Excitability, Automaticity, Conductivity Feedback: Three physiologic characteristics of two types of specialized electrical cells, the nodal cells and the Purkinje cells, provide this synchronization: automaticity, or the ability to initiate an electrical impulse; excitability, or the ability to respond to an electrical impulse; and conductivity, the ability to transmit an electrical impulse from one cell to another. Loop connectivity is a distracter for this question. Independence of the cells has nothing to do with the synchronization described in the scenario.

A patient is brought into the ED by family members who tell the nurse the patient grabbed his chest and complained of substernal chest pain. The care team recognizes the need to monitor the patient's cardiac function closely while interventions are performed. What form of monitoring should the nurse anticipate? A)Left-sided heart catheterization B)Cardiac telemetry C)Transesophageal echocardiography D)Hardwire continuous ECG monitoring

Ans: Hardwire continuous ECG monitoring Feedback: Two types of continuous ECG monitoring techniques are used in health care settings: hardwire cardiac monitoring, found in EDs, critical care units, and progressive care units; and telemetry, found in general nursing care units or outpatient cardiac rehabilitation programs. Cardiac catheterization and transesophageal echocardiography would not be used in emergent situations to monitor cardiac function.

A brain (B-type) natriuretic peptide (BNP) sample has been drawn from an older adult patient who has been experienced vital fatigue and shortness of breath. This test will allow the care team to investigate the possibility of what diagnosis? A)Pleurisy B)Heart failure C)Valve dysfunction D)Cardiomyopathy

Ans: Heart failure Feedback: The level of BNP in the blood increases as the ventricular walls expand from increased pressure, making it a helpful diagnostic, monitoring, and prognostic tool in the setting of HF. It is not specific to cardiomyopathy, pleurisy, or valve dysfunction.

The critical care nurse is caring for a patient with a central venous pressure (CVP) monitoring system. The nurse notes that the patient's CVP is increasing. Of what may this indicate? A)Psychosocial stress B)Hypervolemia C)Dislodgment of the catheter D)Hypomagnesemia

Ans: Hypervolemia Feedback: CVP is a useful hemodynamic parameter to observe when managing an unstable patient's fluid volume status. An increasing pressure may be caused by hypervolemia or by a condition, such as heart failure, that results in decreased myocardial contractility. Stress, dislodgement of the catheter, and low magnesium levels would not typically result in increased CVP.

The nurse is conducting patient teaching about cholesterol levels. When discussing the patient's elevated LDL and lowered HDL levels, the patient shows an understanding of the significance of these levels by stating what? A)"Increased LDL and decreased HDL increase my risk of coronary artery disease." B)"Increased LDL has the potential to decrease my risk of heart disease." C)"The decreased HDL level will increase the amount of cholesterol moved away from the artery walls." D)"The increased LDL will decrease the amount of cholesterol deposited on the artery walls."

Ans: Increased LDL and decreased HDL increase my risk of coronary artery disease. Feedback: Elevated LDL levels and decreased HDL levels are associated with a greater incidence of coronary artery disease.

A nurse is preparing a patient for scheduled transesophageal echocardiography. What action should the nurse perform? A)Instruct the patient to drink 1 liter of water before the test. B)Administer IV benzodiazepines and opioids. C)Inform the patient that she will remain on bed rest following the procedure. D)Inform the patient that an access line will be initiated in her femoral artery.

Ans: Inform the patient that she will remain on bed rest following the procedure. Feedback: During the recovery period, the patient must maintain bed rest with the head of the bed elevated to 45 degrees. The patient must be NPO 6 hours preprocedure. The patient is sedated to make him or her comfortable, but will not be heavily sedated, and opioids are not necessary. Also, the patient will have a peripheral IV line initiated preprocedure.

During a shift assessment, the nurse is identifying the client's point of maximum impulse (PMI). Where will the nurse best palpate the PMI? A) Left midclavicular line of the chest at the level of the nipple B) Left midclavicular line of the chest at the fifth intercostal space C) Midline between the xiphoid process and the left nipple D) Two to three centimeters to the left of the sternum

Ans: Left midclavicular line of the chest at the fifth intercostal space Feedback: The left ventricle is responsible for the apical beat or the point of maximum impulse, which is normally palpated in the left midclavicular line of the chest wall at the fifth intercostal space.

The physical therapist notifies the nurse that a patient with coronary artery disease (CAD) experiences a much greater-than-average increase in heart rate during physical therapy. The nurse recognizes that an increase in heart rate in a patient with CAD may result in what? A)Development of an atrial-septal defect B)Myocardial ischemia C)Formation of a pulmonary embolism D)Release of potassium ions from cardiac cells

Ans: Myocardial ischemia Feedback: Unlike other arteries, the coronary arteries are perfused during diastole. An increase in heart rate shortens diastole and can decrease myocardial perfusion. Patients, particularly those with CAD, can develop myocardial ischemia. An increase in heart rate will not usually result in a pulmonary embolism or create electrolyte imbalances. Atrial-septal defects are congenital.

A patient has had a myocardial infarction and has been diagnosed as having damage to the layer of the heart responsible for the pumping action. You are aware that the damage occurred where? A)Endocardium B)Pericardium C)Myocardium D)Visceral pericardium

Ans: Myocardium Feedback: The myocardium is the layer of the heart responsible for the pumping action.

The physician has placed a central venous pressure (CVP) monitoring line in an acutely ill patient so right ventricular function and venous blood return can be closely monitored. The results show decreased CVP. What does this indicate? A)Possible hypovolemia B)Possible myocardial infarction (MI) C)Left-sided heart failure D)Aortic valve regurgitation

Ans: Possible hypovolemia Feedback: Hypovolemia may cause a decreased CVP. MI, valve regurgitation and heart failure are less likely causes of decreased CVP.

The critical care nurse is caring for a patient who has had an MI. The nurse should expect to assist with establishing what hemodynamic monitoring procedure to assess the patient's left ventricular function? A)Central venous pressure (CVP) monitoring B)Pulmonary artery pressure monitoring (PAPM) C)Systemic arterial pressure monitoring (SAPM) D)Arterial blood gases (ABG)

Ans: Pulmonary artery pressure monitoring (PAPM) Feedback: PAPM is used to assess left ventricular function. CVP is used to assess right ventricular function; SAPM is used for continual assessment of BP. ABG are used to assess for acidic and alkalotic levels in the blood.

The nurse's assessment of an older adult client reveals the following data: Lying BP 144/82 mm Hg; sitting BP 121/69 mm Hg; standing BP 98/56 mm Hg. The nurse should consequently identify what nursing diagnosis in the patient's plan of care? A)Risk for ineffective breathing pattern related to hypotension B)Risk for falls related to orthostatic hypotension C)Risk for ineffective role performance related to hypotension D)Risk for imbalanced fluid balance related to hemodynamic variability

Ans: Risk for falls related to orthostatic hypotension Feedback: Orthostatic hypotension creates a significant risk for falls due to the dizziness and lightheadedness that accompanies it. It does not normally affect breathing or fluid balance. The patient's ability to perform normal roles may be affected, but the risk for falls is the most significant threat to safety.

The critical care nurse is caring for a patient who has been experiencing bradycardia after cardiovascular surgery. The nurse knows that the heart rate is determined by myocardial cells with the fastest inherent firing rate. Under normal circumstances where are these cells located? A)SA node B)AV node C)Bundle of His D)Purkinje cells

Ans: SA node Feedback: The heart rate is determined by the myocardial cells with the fastest inherent firing rate. Under normal circumstances, the SA node has the highest inherent rate (60 to 100 impulses per minute).

A nurse is describing the process by which blood is ejected into circulation as the chambers of the heart become smaller. The instructor categorizes this action of the heart as what? A) Systole B) Diastole C) Repolarization D) Ejection fraction

Ans: Systole Feedback: Systole is the action of the chambers of the heart becoming smaller and ejecting blood. This action of the heart is not diastole (relaxations), ejection fraction (the amount of blood expelled), or repolarization (electrical charging).

The critical care nurse is caring for a patient with a pulmonary artery pressure monitoring system. The nurse is aware that pulmonary artery pressure monitoring is used to assess left ventricular function. What is an additional function of pulmonary artery pressure monitoring systems? A)To assess the patient's response to fluid and drug administration B)To obtain specimens for arterial blood gas measurements C)To dislodge pulmonary emboli D)To diagnose the etiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Ans: To assess the patient's response to fluid and drug administration Feedback: Pulmonary artery pressure monitoring is an important tool used in critical care for assessing left ventricular function (cardiac output), diagnosing the etiology of shock, and evaluating the patient's response to medical interventions, such as fluid administration and vasoactive medications. Pulmonary artery monitoring is preferred for the patient with heart failure over central venous pressure monitoring. Arterial catheters are useful when arterial blood gas measurements and blood samples need to be obtained frequently. Neither intervention is used to clear pulmonary emboli.

The nurse is performing an intake assessment on a patient with a new diagnosis of coronary artery disease. What would be the most important determination to make during this intake assessment? A)Whether the patient and involved family members understand the role of genetics in the etiology of the disease B)Whether the patient and involved family members understand dietary changes and the role of nutrition C)Whether the patient and involved family members are able to recognize symptoms of an acute cardiac problem and respond appropriately D)Whether the patient and involved family members understand the importance of social support and community agencies

Ans: Whether the patient and involved family members are able to recognize symptoms of an acute cardiac problem and respond appropriately Feedback: During the health history, the nurse needs to determine if the patient and involved family members are able to recognize symptoms of an acute cardiac problem, such as acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or HF, and seek timely treatment for these symptoms. Each of the other listed topics is valid, but the timely and appropriate response to a cardiac emergency is paramount.

The nurse is caring for an 82-year-old patient. The nurse knows that changes in cardiac structure and function occur in older adults. What is a normal change expected in the aging heart of an older adult? A)Decreased left ventricular ejection time B)Decreased connective tissue in the SA and AV nodes and bundle branches C)Thinning and flaccidity of the cardiac values D)Widening of the aorta

Ans: Widening of the aorta Feedback: Changes in cardiac structure and function are clearly observable in the aging heart. Aging results in decreased elasticity and widening of the aorta, thickening and rigidity of the cardiac valves, increased connective tissue in the SA and AV nodes and bundle branches, and an increased left ventricular ejection time (prolonged systole).

The nurse is caring for a patient who has central venous pressure (CVP) monitoring in place. The nurse's most recent assessment reveals that CVP is 7 mm Hg. What is the nurse's most appropriate action? A) Arrange for continuous cardiac monitoring and reposition the patient. B)Remove the CVP catheter and apply an occlusive dressing. C)Assess the patient for fluid overload and inform the physician. D)Raise the head of the patient's bed and have the patient perform deep breathing exercise, if possible.

Assess the patient for fluid overload and inform the physician. Feedback: The normal CVP is 2 to 6 mm Hg. Many problems can cause an elevated CVP, but the most common is due to hypervolemia. Assessing the patient and informing the physician are the most prudent actions. Repositioning the patient is ineffective and removing the device is inappropriate.

The nurse observes a client during an exercise stress test (bicycle). Which finding indicates a positive test and the need for further diagnostic testing?

ST-segment changes on the ECG During the test, the following are monitored: two or more ECG leads for heart rate, rhythm, and ischemic changes; blood pressure; skin temperature; physical appearance; perceived exertion; and symptoms, including chest pain, dyspnea, dizziness, leg cramping, and fatigue. The test is terminated when the target heart rate is achieved or if the client experiences signs of myocardial ischemia. Further diagnostic testing, such as a cardiac catheterization, may be warranted if the client develops chest pain, extreme fatigue, a decrease in blood pressure or pulse rate, serious dysrhythmias or ST-segment changes on the ECG during the stress test. The other findings would not warrant stopping the test.

For both outpatients and inpatients scheduled for diagnostic procedures of the cardiovascular system, the nurse performs a thorough initial assessment to establish accurate baseline data. Which data is necessary to collect if the client is experiencing chest pain?

description of the pain If the client is experiencing chest pain, a history of its location, frequency, and duration is necessary. A description of the pain is also needed, including if it radiates to a particular area, what precipitates its onset, and what brings relief. The nurse weighs the client and measures vital signs. The nurse may measure blood pressure in both arms and compare findings. The nurse assesses apical and radial pulses, noting rate, quality, and rhythm. The nurse also checks peripheral pulses in the lower extremities.

The nurse auscultates the apex beat at which anatomical location?

fifth intercostal space, midclavicular line The left ventricle is responsible for the apex beat or the point of maximum impulse, which is normally palpable in the left midclavicular line of the chest wall at the fifth intercostal space. The right ventricle lies anteriorly, just beneath the sternum. Use of inches to identify the location of the apex beat is inappropriate based upon variations in human anatomy. Auscultation below and to the left of the xiphoid process will detect gastrointestinal sounds, but not the apex beat of the heart.

What is a harsh grating sound caused by abrasion of the pericardial surfaces during the cardiac cycle?

friction rub During pericarditis, a harsh, grating sound that can be heard in both systole and diastole is called a friction rub. A murmur is created by the turbulent flow of blood. A cause of the turbulence may be a critically narrowed valve. An opening snap is caused by high pressure in the left atrium with abrupt displacement of a rigid mitral valve. An ejection click is caused by very high pressure within the ventricle, displacing a rigid and calcified aortic valve.

The nurse cares for a client in the emergency department who has a B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level of 115 pg/mL. The nurse recognizes that this finding is most indicative of which condition?

heart failure A BNP level greater than 100 pg/mL is suggestive of heart failure. Because this serum laboratory test can be quickly obtained, BNP levels are useful for prompt diagnosis of heart failure in settings such as the emergency department. Elevations in BNP can occur from a number of other conditions such as pulmonary embolus, myocardial infarction (MI), and ventricular hypertrophy. Therefore, the healthcare provider correlates BNP levels with abnormal physical assessment findings and other diagnostic tests before making a definitive diagnosis of heart failure.

During the auscultation of a client's heart sounds, the nurse notes an S4. The nurse recognizes that an S4 is associated with which condition?

hypertensive heart disease Auscultation of the heart requires familiarization with normal and abnormal heart sounds. An extra sound just before S1 is an S4 heart sound, or atrial gallop. An S4 sound often is associated with hypertensive heart disease. A sound that follows S1 and S2 is called an S3 heart sound or a ventricular gallop. An S3 heart sound is often an indication of heart failure in an adult. In addition to heart sounds, auscultation may reveal other abnormal sounds, such as murmurs and clicks, caused by turbulent blood flow through diseased heart valves.

During the auscultation of heart, what is revealed by an atrial gallop?

hypertensive heart disease Auscultation of the heart requires familiarization with normal and abnormal heart sounds. An extra sound just before S1 is an S4 heart sound, or atrial gallop. An S4 sound often is associated with hypertensive heart disease. A sound that follows S1 and S2 is called an S3 heart sound or a ventricular gallop. An S3 heart sound is often an indication of heart failure in an adult. In addition to heart sounds, auscultation may reveal other abnormal sounds, such as murmurs and clicks, caused by turbulent blood flow through diseased heart valves.

When the balloon on the distal tip of a pulmonary artery catheter is inflated and the pressure is measured, the measurement obtained is referred to as the

pulmonary artery wedge pressure. When the balloon is inflated, the tip of the catheter floats into smaller branches of the pulmonary artery until it can no longer be passed. The pressure is recorded, reflecting left-atrial pressure and left-ventricular end-diastolic pressure. Central venous pressure is measured in the right atrium. Pulmonary artery pressure is measured when the balloon tip is not inflated. Cardiac output is determined through thermodilution, which involves injection of fluid into the pulmonary artery catheter.