A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with atrial fibrillation who is receiving continuous IV heparin. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?

The client has an INR of 2.

The client has an aPTT of 80 seconds.

The client experiences sudden weakness of one arm and leg.

The client's ECG tracing shows irregular heart rate without P waves.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. An INR of 2 is within the therapeutic range for anticoagulation but is more relevant for warfarin therapy rather than heparin.
B. An aPTT of 80 seconds is slightly elevated but not immediately life-threatening. The therapeutic range for heparin is typically 1.5 to 2.5 times the normal value (approximately 60-80 seconds).
C. Sudden weakness of one arm and leg suggests a possible embolic stroke, which is a serious complication of atrial fibrillation. This requires immediate assessment and intervention.
D. An irregular heart rate without P waves is characteristic of atrial fibrillation but is not the most urgent concern compared to potential stroke symptoms.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Defibrillation is the priority intervention for pulseless ventricular tachycardia, as it can restore a normal rhythm. It should be performed as soon as possible.
B. Synchronized cardioversion is used for hemodynamically unstable tachyarrhythmias with a pulse, not for pulseless V-Tach.
C. CPR should be initiated if a defibrillator is not immediately available, but defibrillation is the definitive treatment.
D. Repeating an ECG does not address the immediate life-threatening situation.

A. Reduction of blood pressure to normal over a period of days B. Reduce the blood pressure to normal over a period of hours. C. Reduction of blood pressure by 50% in the first hour. D. Reduce blood pressure until the patient is asymptomatic.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. In a hypertensive emergency, the goal is to reduce blood pressure gradually over 24 to 48 hours to prevent organ damage while avoiding excessive drops that could cause ischemia.
B. Rapid reduction of blood pressure over a few hours can lead to organ hypoperfusion and ischemic complications, such as stroke or acute kidney injury.
C. A 50% reduction in the first hour is too aggressive and may result in severe adverse effects such as cerebral or myocardial ischemia. The recommended initial reduction is no more than 25% in the first hour.
D. Treating hypertension based solely on symptoms is inappropriate, as some patients may be asymptomatic despite dangerously high blood pressure. The focus is on preventing target organ damage.

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A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with atrial fibrillation who is receiving continuous IV heparin. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who is in pulseless ventricular tachycardia (V-Tach). The nurse recognizes the need for which priority intervention?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client admitted with hypertensive emergency. The nurse is aware the treatment goals for the patient include which of the following?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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