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 D

Explanation

The procedure uses electrical energy to destroy areas of the conduction system: Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure performed to treat abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial ﬂutter. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into the heartand used to deliver electrical energy to speciﬁc areas of the heart tissue. This energy is used to destroy or ablate the abnormal conduction pathways that are causing the atrial ﬂutter.

Let's go through the other options and explain why they are not accurate:

The procedure stimulates the growth of new pathways between the atria: Catheter ablation does not stimulate the growth of new pathways. Instead, it aims to eliminate or modify existing abnormal pathways in the heart to restore normal electrical conduction.

The procedure uses cold therapy to stop the formation of the ﬂutter waves: Catheter ablation does not use cold therapy. It primarily utilizes radiofrequency energy or other sources of heat to ablate the targeted areas of the heart tissue.

The procedure prevents or minimizes the patient's risk for sudden cardiac death: While catheter ablation can be an effective treatment for certain arrhythmias, including atrial ﬂutter, it is not primarily performed to prevent or minimize the risk of sudden cardiac death. Its main purpose is to restore normal heart rhythm and alleviate symptoms associated with the arrhythmia.

A. cardiac catheterization B. transesophageal echocardiogram C. telemetry monitoring D. pharmacologic stress test

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

ST-segment elevation during exercise stress testing is a concerning ﬁnding that may indicate reduced blood ﬂow to the heart muscle. It can be a sign of myocardial ischemia or coronary artery disease. Cardiac catheterization is a diagnostic procedure that allows direct visualization of the coronary arteries and helps identify any blockages or narrowing that may be causing the ST-segment elevation.

Here's an explanation of why the other options are not the most appropriate procedures:

Transesophageal echocardiogram: Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is a diagnostic test that involves inserting a probe into the esophagus to obtain detailed images of the heart. It is not typically used to evaluate ST-segment elevation, which primarily indicates coronary artery issues rather than structural abnormalities.

Telemetry monitoring: Telemetry monitoring involves continuous monitoring of a patient's heart rhythm and can be used for various cardiac conditions. While telemetry monitoring may be necessary for ongoing cardiac assessment, it is not a speciﬁc procedure to address the ST-segment elevation found during the exercise stress test.

Pharmacologic stress test: A pharmacologic stress test is an alternative to an exercise stress test for patients who cannot exercise. It involves administering medications that stimulate the heart to mimic the effects of exercise. While a pharmacologic stress testcan also reveal ST-segment changes, the presence of ST-segment elevation usually requires further evaluation with a more invasive procedure like cardiac catheterization.

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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 teaching a client with atrial ﬂutter who is scheduled for a catheter ablation? What should the nurse include in the teaching plan?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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