A client with a diagnosis of valvular heart disease is being considered for mechanical valve replacement. Which circumstance is essential to assess before the surgery is performed?
The ability to comply with anticoagulant therapy for life.
The likelihood of the client experiencing body image problems.
The physical demands of the client’s lifestyle.
The ability to participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The ability to comply with anticoagulant therapy for life is essential for clients undergoing mechanical valve replacement. Mechanical valves are prone to thrombus formation, which can lead to serious complications such as stroke. Therefore, lifelong anticoagulation therapy is necessary to prevent clot formation on the valve.
Choice B rationale
While body image problems may arise due to surgical scars or the presence of a mechanical valve, they are not a primary concern that needs to be assessed before surgery. The focus should be on the client’s ability to manage the medical requirements post-surgery.
Choice C rationale
The physical demands of the client’s lifestyle are important but not as critical as the ability to comply with anticoagulant therapy. The primary concern is ensuring the client can adhere to the necessary medical regimen to prevent complications.
Choice D rationale
Participation in a cardiac rehabilitation program is beneficial for recovery and improving cardiovascular health, but it is not as crucial as the ability to comply with anticoagulant therapy. The main priority is preventing thrombus formation on the mechanical valve.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Warmth around the IV insertion site is a classic sign of phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein. This can be caused by irritation from the IV catheter or the infusing solution.
Choice B rationale
A stopped infusion rate without a kinked tubing could indicate an occlusion or infiltration, but it is not a specific sign of phlebitis.
Choice C rationale
Fluid leaking around the insertion site suggests infiltration or extravasation, where the IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue, rather than phlebitis.
Choice D rationale
Lack of blood return when aspirating the tubing could indicate a positional issue or occlusion, but it is not specific to phlebitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Fever usually accompanies myocardial infarction. This statement is incorrect. While fever can occur with myocardial infarction, it is not a common or primary symptom. Acetaminophen is not prescribed for this reason.
Choice B rationale
Acetaminophen does not interfere with platelet action as acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) does. This statement is correct but not the reason for prescribing acetaminophen before nitrates. Acetaminophen is chosen for its analgesic properties without affecting platelet function.
Choice C rationale
Headache is a common side effect of nitrates. This statement is correct. Nitrates can cause vasodilation, leading to headaches. Acetaminophen is prescribed to manage this common side effect.
Choice D rationale
Acetaminophen potentiates the therapeutic effect of nitrates. This statement is incorrect. Acetaminophen does not enhance the therapeutic effects of nitrates; it is used to manage side effects like headaches.
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