A nurse is admitting a client who has a history of atrial fibrillation. Which of the following conditions should the nurse recognize atrial fibrillation places the client at risk for?
Hemothorax
Cardiac tamponade
Pulmonary emboli
Widened pulse pressure
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Hemothorax: Hemothorax is accumulation of blood in the pleural space, typically caused by trauma, surgery, or ruptured vessels. Atrial fibrillation does not directly increase the risk of hemothorax.
B. Cardiac tamponade: Cardiac tamponade occurs when fluid accumulates in the pericardial sac, impairing cardiac output. This condition is usually associated with trauma, pericarditis, or post-surgical complications, not atrial fibrillation.
C. Pulmonary emboli: Atrial fibrillation can lead to stasis of blood in the atria, especially the left atrial appendage, increasing the risk of thrombus formation. If a clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, making this a serious complication to monitor for.
D. Widened pulse pressure: Widened pulse pressure reflects the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure and is associated with conditions like aortic regurgitation. It is not a direct consequence of atrial fibrillation and is not considered a primary risk in these clients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Monitor the IV site every 8 hours: In infants, IV sites should be assessed much more frequently, typically every 1–2 hours, due to their fragile veins and higher risk of infiltration or phlebitis. Monitoring every 8 hours is insufficient for safety.
B. Use gauze to cover the IV insertion site: Transparent dressings are preferred for infants because they allow continuous visualization of the IV site for signs of infiltration, phlebitis, or infection. Gauze obscures the site and may delay detection of complications.
C. Obtain a 24-gauge catheter: A 24-gauge catheter is appropriate for peripheral IV access in infants. It is small enough to fit delicate veins while allowing adequate fluid and medication administration safely.
D. Insert the catheter into the foot: Foot veins are generally avoided in infants due to higher risk of complications and limited accessibility. Preferred sites include veins on the hands, forearms, or scalp, which are safer and easier to monitor.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "Placement of the catheter is confirmed by a CT scan.": Catheter placement is not routinely confirmed by CT scan. Instead, correct placement of a central venous catheter is verified by a chest X-ray immediately after insertion to ensure proper tip location.
B. "You will be under general anesthesia for this procedure.": General anesthesia is not required for placement of a nontunneled percutaneous central venous catheter. The procedure is typically performed using local anesthesia and aseptic technique at the bedside.
C. "The provider will wear a mask while performing the procedure.": The provider wears a mask, sterile gown, gloves, and cap as part of strict sterile technique during insertion to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections.
D. "Your head will be elevated as high as possible while the catheter is inserted.": The client’s head is not elevated during insertion. Instead, a flat or slight Trendelenburg position is used to distend neck veins and reduce the risk of air embolism.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
