A nurse is planning care for a client who has suspected cardiac tamponade. Which of the following diagnostic tests should the nurse anticipate the provider to order first?

Computed tomography (CT) scan

Chest x-ray

Echocardiogram

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A) Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan may provide detailed images of the heart and surrounding structures, but it is not typically the initial diagnostic test used to assess for cardiac tamponade. CT scans are often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests but are not the first-line investigation for suspected tamponade.

B) Chest x-ray: While a chest x-ray may show signs of cardiac tamponade, such as an enlarged cardiac silhouette or evidence of fluid accumulation around the heart, it is not as sensitive or specific as other diagnostic tests, particularly in the acute setting. Chest x-rays may be obtained as part of the diagnostic workup, but they are not the first-line test for suspected tamponade.

C) Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram is the most appropriate initial diagnostic test for suspected cardiac tamponade. It provides real-time imaging of the heart and can detect pericardial effusion, collapse of the right atrium and ventricle during diastole (diastolic collapse), and signs of hemodynamic compromise. Echocardiography allows for rapid assessment at the bedside and can guide immediate management decisions.

D) Electrocardiogram (ECG): While an electrocardiogram may show nonspecific changes in cardiac tamponade, such as low-voltage QRS complexes or electrical alternans, it is not as sensitive or specific as an echocardiogram for diagnosing tamponade. ECG findings may support the diagnosis but are not typically the first-line test for suspected tamponade.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Myopia: Myopia refers to nearsightedness, which is caused by refractive errors in the eye and is not associated with Meniere's disease. Myopia results in difficulty seeing distant objects clearly.

B. Vertigo: Vertigo is a hallmark symptom of Meniere's disease and is caused by an excessive accumulation of endolymph fluid in the inner ear. Vertigo presents as a sensation of spinning or dizziness, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and imbalance.

C. Photophobia: Photophobia refers to sensitivity to light, which can be associated with various eye conditions but is not a typical manifestation of Meniere's disease. Photophobia may occur in conditions such as migraine headaches or certain eye infections.

D. Presbycusis: Presbycusis refers to age-related hearing loss, which typically occurs gradually over time and is not directly associated with Meniere's disease. Meniere's disease is characterized by sudden episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear.

A. A decrease in systolic blood pressure greater than 10 mm Hg during inspiration B. A decrease in heart rate greater than 10/min when lying down C. An increase in diastolic blood pressure greater than 10 mm Hg during inspiration D. An increase in heart rate greater than 20/min when standing

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. A decrease in systolic blood pressure greater than 10 mm Hg during inspiration: Pulsus paradoxus is an exaggerated decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration. Normally, there is a slight decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration due to increased intrathoracic pressure and decreased venous return to the heart. However, in conditions such as cardiac tamponade or severe asthma exacerbations, the decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration is more pronounced (>10 mm Hg), indicating impaired cardiac output and decreased left ventricular filling during inspiration.

B. A decrease in heart rate greater than 10/min when lying down: This finding is not indicative of pulsus paradoxus. Pulsus paradoxus primarily refers to changes in systolic blood pressure during inspiration rather than alterations in heart rate when lying down.

C. An increase in diastolic blood pressure greater than 10 mm Hg during inspiration: This finding is not indicative of pulsus paradoxus. Pulsus paradoxus is characterized by an exaggerated decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration, not changes in diastolic blood pressure.

D. An increase in heart rate greater than 20/min when standing: This finding is not indicative of pulsus paradoxus. Pulsus paradoxus primarily refers to changes in systolic blood pressure during inspiration rather than alterations in heart rate when standing.

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A nurse is planning care for a client who has suspected cardiac tamponade. Which of the following diagnostic tests should the nurse anticipate the provider to order first?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who has Meniere’s disease. The nurse identifies that which of the following manifestations is caused by an excessive accumulation of endolymph fluid?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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