A client with a complex cardiac history is scheduled for transthoracic echocardiography. What should the nurse teach the client in anticipation of this diagnostic procedure?

The test is noninvasive, and nothing will be inserted into the client's body.

The client's pain will be managed aggressively during the procedure

The test will provide a detailed profile of the heart's electrical activity

The client will remain on bed rest for 1 to 2 hours after the test

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

The nurse should teach the client that the transthoracic echocardiography is a noninvasive test and that nothing will be inserted into the client's body.

Transthoracic echocardiography is a diagnostic procedure that uses ultrasound to create images of the heart's structures and assess its function. It is a noninvasive test, meaning that it does not involve any insertion of instruments or devices into the body. Instead, a transducer is placed on the chest to obtain images of the heart.

The statement about managing pain aggressively during the procedure is not applicable to transthoracic echocardiography. It is generally a painless procedure that does not cause discomfort.

Transthoracic echocardiography primarily provides detailed images of the heart's structures and function, such as the chambers, valves, and pumping action. It does not specifically profile the heart's electrical activity, which is usually assessed using an electrocardiogram (ECG) or other specialized tests.

Regarding bed rest after the test, there is typically no need for bed rest following transthoracic echocardiography. The client can usually resume normal activities immediately after the procedure. However, the nurse should provide specific instructions based on the client's condition and any additional tests or interventions planned.

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Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

Pain level of 10 out of 10: Severe pain can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and result in an increased heart rate.

Temperature 101.9°F: Fever can lead to an elevated heart rate as the body's response to infection or inﬂammation.

Hemoglobin: 7 g/dL: Low hemoglobin levels, known as anemia, can cause the heart to pump faster in an attempt to compensate for the decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

Cocaine abuse: Cocaine is a stimulant drug that can signiﬁcantly increase heart rate and cause tachycardia.

The following clinical ﬁnding would not typically be associated with tachycardia:

Blood glucose 90 mg/dL: While low or high blood glucose levels can cause symptoms, they are not directly associated with tachycardia unless they lead to signiﬁcant physiological stress or hormonal imbalances.

A. Blood glucose level of 175 mg/dl. B. Orthostatic systolic BP decrease of 12 mm Hg C. Serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq D. Current blood pressure (BP) reading of 166/94 mm Hg

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The most important finding to report to the health care provider would be the serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq. This is an extremely low potassium level (normal range is typically 3.5-5.0 mEq/L), which can indicate a potentially life-threatening condition called hypokalemia. Furosemide (Lasix) is a diuretic medication that can cause potassium loss in the urine, and a low potassium level can lead to serious cardiac and muscle abnormalities. It is crucial to report this finding promptly to the health care provider for appropriate intervention and monitoring.

Blood glucose level of 175 mg/dL: While an elevated blood glucose level can be a concern, especially for individuals with diabetes, it is not the most critical finding in this situation. The client's primary concern is hypertension, and the administration of IV furosemide is aimed at managing blood pressure. The elevated blood glucose level should still be addressed and monitored, but it is not as urgent as the low potassium level.

Orthostatic systolic BP decrease of 12 mm Hg: Orthostatic hypotension refers to a significant decrease in blood pressure upon standing up. While it is important to assess and manage orthostatic changes, a decrease of 12 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure alone may not be considered clinically significant. It could be a normal response for some individuals. However, if the client experiences symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing, further evaluation may be necessary. Nonetheless, it is not as urgent as the low potassium level.

Current blood pressure reading of 166/94 mm Hg: While this blood pressure reading indicates hypertension, it is not the most critical finding to report in this situation. The nurse is preparing to administer furosemide (Lasix), which is a medication commonly used to treat hypertension. It is expected that the blood pressure will be high before administering the medication. The goal is to monitor the blood pressure after the administration to assess the effectiveness of the medication.

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A client with a complex cardiac history is scheduled for transthoracic echocardiography. What should the nurse teach the client in anticipation of this diagnostic procedure?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is assessing a client with a heart rate of 124 bpm. What clinical ﬁnding(s) should the nurse assess as causes of tachycardia? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

The nurse is preparing to administer IV furosemide (Lasix) to a client with hypertension. What is the most important finding to report to the health care provider?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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