A client is scheduled to have a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) to treat coronary artery disease.
What information about the balloon-tipped catheter would the nurse plan to include when providing client education concerning the procedure?
A mesh-like device within the catheter will be inflated causing it to spring open.
The catheter will be positioned in a coronary artery to take pressure measurements in the vessel.
The catheter will be used to compress the plaque against the coronary blood vessel wall.
The catheter will cut away the plaque from the coronary vessel wall using an embedded blade.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
A mesh-like device within the catheter that springs open is characteristic of a stent, not a balloon-tipped catheter used in PTCA. Stents are often used in conjunction with angioplasty to keep the artery open after the balloon has compressed the plaque.
Choice B rationale
While catheters can be used to take pressure measurements, this is not the primary function of the balloon-tipped catheter in PTCA. The main purpose of the balloon-tipped catheter is to compress the plaque against the artery wall to improve blood flow.
Choice C rationale
The balloon-tipped catheter in PTCA is used to compress the plaque against the coronary blood vessel wall. This process, known as balloon angioplasty, helps to widen the artery and improve blood flow to the heart.
Choice D rationale
Cutting away plaque with an embedded blade is a description of atherectomy, not PTCA. Atherectomy involves a different type of catheter designed to remove plaque from the artery wall.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Friction rub is not a typical complication of endocarditis. It is more commonly associated with pericarditis, which is inflammation of the pericardium.
Choice B rationale
Intermittent claudication is not a complication of endocarditis. It is typically associated with peripheral artery disease, which affects blood flow to the limbs.
Choice C rationale
Cardiac murmur is a common finding in endocarditis. The infection can cause damage to the heart valves, leading to abnormal heart sounds or murmurs.
Choice D rationale
Dependent rubor is not a complication of endocarditis. It is usually associated with peripheral artery disease and is characterized by redness of the lower extremities when they are in a dependent position.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Checking the circulation of the affected extremity is crucial because the greatest risk to the client is neuromuscular injury resulting from compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that occurs when there’s increased pressure within the muscles, leading to decreased blood flow, which can cause muscle and nerve damage. Early detection and intervention are essential to prevent permanent damage.
Choice B rationale
Administering additional pain medication might provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issue of potential compartment syndrome. Pain unrelieved by medication is a key indicator of this condition, and addressing circulation is the priority.
Choice C rationale
Repositioning the affected extremity might help with comfort, but it does not address the potential for compartment syndrome. The primary concern is ensuring adequate blood flow to prevent tissue damage.
Choice D rationale
Documenting the findings is important for medical records, but it does not address the immediate risk of compartment syndrome. Immediate action to check circulation is necessary to prevent serious complications.
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