A nurse is assessing a client's pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP). The nurse should recognize that an elevated PAWP indicates which of the following complications?
Hypotension
Hypovolemia
Cardiogenic shock
Left ventricular failure
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Hypotension: Hypotension is typically associated with decreased preload and low PAWP rather than elevated values. An elevated PAWP reflects increased pressure in the left heart, which does not occur with simple hypotension alone.
B. Hypovolemia: Hypovolemia leads to decreased circulating blood volume, reducing preload and PAWP. It is typically marked by low filling pressures, not elevated wedge pressures.
C. Cardiogenic shock: Although cardiogenic shock can be associated with elevated PAWP due to poor cardiac output and fluid backup, it is not as specific a marker as left ventricular failure, which directly affects PAWP.
D. Left ventricular failure: Elevated PAWP reflects increased pressure in the left atrium and pulmonary circulation, which is a hallmark of left-sided heart failure. This elevation occurs because the failing left ventricle cannot efficiently pump blood forward.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Obtaining the initial assessment of assigned clients: Initial assessments require nursing judgment and are part of the nursing process, which cannot be delegated to assistive personnel. Only licensed nurses may perform comprehensive initial assessments.
B. Changing a nonsterile dressing: This is a routine and predictable task that does not require clinical judgment and can be safely delegated to assistive personnel, depending on facility policy and the client’s condition.
C. Interpreting a client's diagnostic laboratory results: Interpretation of lab values requires analysis and clinical decision-making, which are nursing responsibilities. Assistive personnel are not licensed to interpret or evaluate clinical data.
D. Educating a client and family members on home care: Client education involves assessing understanding, using clinical knowledge, and adapting teaching methods, functions reserved for licensed nurses, not assistive personnel.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "I should take this medication on an empty stomach.": Amitriptyline does not require administration on an empty stomach. It can be taken with or without food, although taking it with food may help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
B. "I can continue to take St. John's wort while taking this medication.": St. John's wort can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome and reduce the effectiveness of amitriptyline due to drug interactions. Clients should avoid combining herbal supplements with antidepressants.
C. "I know it will be a couple of weeks before the medication helps me feel better.": Tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline take 2 to 4 weeks to show noticeable improvement in mood. Recognizing the delayed onset helps set realistic expectations and supports adherence.
D. "I expect this medication to raise my blood pressure.": Amitriptyline more commonly causes orthostatic hypotension, especially when therapy is initiated. Clients should be taught to change positions slowly to reduce the risk of dizziness and falls.
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