A nurse is planning care for a client who has atrial fibrillation and reports heart palpitations, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath. Which of the following procedures should the nurse anticipate for this client?
Pericardiocentesis
Septal myectomy
Pericardial window
Synchronized electrical cardioversion
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Pericardiocentesis is a procedure used to remove fluid from the pericardial sac and is not typically used to treat atrial fibrillation. It is more commonly indicated for conditions such as pericardial effusion or cardiac tamponade.
Choice B rationale
Septal myectomy is a surgical intervention to remove part of the thickened septal wall that separates the ventricles of the heart. It is primarily used to treat hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, not atrial fibrillation.
Choice C rationale
A pericardial window is a procedure that creates an opening in the pericardium to allow fluid to drain into the surrounding chest cavity. This procedure is not a treatment for atrial fibrillation.
Choice D rationale
Synchronized electrical cardioversion is a procedure where a controlled electric shock is delivered to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. It is a common and effective treatment for atrial fibrillation, especially when the condition is causing significant symptoms like palpitations, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring fluid and electrolytes is essential in managing ascites to prevent complications such as fluid overload or electrolyte imbalances, which can exacerbate the condition.
Choice B rationale
Providing a high-sodium diet is not recommended for patients with ascites. Sodium restriction is typically advised to help manage fluid retention.
Choice C rationale
Anticipating paracentesis is appropriate as it is a procedure used to remove excess fluid from the abdominal cavity, providing relief from discomfort and respiratory difficulty.
Choice D rationale
Encouraging high-fluid intake is not recommended for ascites management. Fluid restriction may be necessary to prevent further accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.
Choice E rationale
Administering an albumin infusion can be part of the treatment for ascites, especially following paracentesis, to help maintain blood volume and pressure.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
In the case of hyperkalemia, which can cause fatal cardiac arrhythmias, the most immediate nursing action is to place the patient on a cardiac monitor. This allows for continuous monitoring of the heart's rhythm and immediate detection of any life-threatening changes, which is crucial for timely intervention.
Choice B rationale
Inserting a urinary retention catheter may be necessary for managing oliguria, but it is not the most urgent action when compared to the potential cardiac risks associated with hyperkalemia.
Choice C rationale
Administering spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, could be part of the treatment for hyperkalemia, but it is not the first action to take. Spironolactone works more slowly and does not address the immediate risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
Choice D rationale
Epoetin alfa (Epogen) is used to treat anemia, particularly in chronic kidney disease, to increase red blood cell production. However, it does not have an immediate effect and is not the priority in the presence of hyperkalemia and potential cardiac complications.
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