A client is scheduled for a coronary angiography. In reviewing the client's record, what significant finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider prior to this procedure?
A history of allergy to iodine.
Serum potassium level of 4.0 mEq/L.
Blood pressure reading of 138/90 mmHg.
An EKG that shows atrial fibrillation.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice a reason:
A history of allergy to iodine is a critical finding to report before a coronary angiography because the contrast dye used in the procedure typically contains iodine. Patients with an iodine allergy may experience severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Precautions such as premedication with steroids and antihistamines or the use of alternative contrast agents may be necessary.
Choice b reason:
A serum potassium level of 4.0 mEq/L is within the normal range, which is approximately 3.5 to 5.2 mEq/L for adults. Therefore, this finding is not significant and does not need to be reported to the healthcare provider prior to the procedure.
Choice c reason:
A blood pressure reading of 138/90 mmHg is slightly elevated but does not reach the threshold for stage 1 hypertension, which starts at 140/90 mmHg for individuals under 60 years of age. While it should be monitored, it is not an urgent concern that needs to be reported immediately before a coronary angiography unless the patient shows symptoms of hypertensive crisis.
Choice d reason:
An EKG showing atrial fibrillation is an important finding; however, it is not typically a contraindication for coronary angiography unless the patient is hemodynamically unstable or symptomatic. Atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of stroke, but anticoagulation management is usually the focus rather than postponing necessary diagnostic procedures.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice a reason:
Diuretic use is not typically associated with an increased risk of developing fibromyalgia. Diuretics are commonly used to treat conditions like hypertension and edema by helping the body eliminate excess fluid, but they do not contribute to the onset of fibromyalgia¹.
Choice b reason:
Emotional or physical trauma has been identified as a risk factor for fibromyalgia. Individuals who experience significant stress or traumatic events may develop the disorder due to changes in how their central nervous system processes pain. Stress can lead to long-lasting effects on the body and may trigger fibromyalgia or worsen its symptoms²³⁴.
Choice c reason:
Being overweight is not a direct risk factor for fibromyalgia, but it can exacerbate symptoms in those who have the condition. Excess weight can increase the strain on the body and may contribute to the chronic pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. However, it is not considered a causative factor¹.
Choice d reason:
Being an adolescent male is not a recognized risk factor for fibromyalgia. The disorder is more commonly diagnosed in women, and while it can occur at any age, it is most often diagnosed during middle age. Gender and age alone are not sufficient to determine the risk of developing fibromyalgia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice a reason:
A cream to soothe itching may be used if the client is experiencing pruritus, which can sometimes accompany biliary issues due to bile salts in the skin. However, pruritus is not a direct symptom of biliary colic, which is characterized primarily by pain.
Choice b reason:
Pain medication is the appropriate treatment for biliary colic. Biliary colic is caused by the temporary blockage of the bile duct by a gallstone, leading to intense pain in the upper right abdomen or the center of the abdomen. Pain relief is typically achieved with anti-inflammatory drugs or antispasmodics, and in some cases, opioids may be necessary.
Choice c reason:
An antibiotic would be prescribed if there was an infection, such as cholecystitis or cholangitis. Biliary colic itself does not necessarily indicate an infection unless accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or elevated white blood cell count.
Choice d reason:
A laxative is not typically used to treat biliary colic. While laxatives can help relieve constipation, biliary colic is a result of gallstones obstructing the bile duct, not bowel movement issues.
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