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 C

Explanation

A. Third spacing: Third spacing refers to the shifting of fluid from the intravascular space into the interstitial space, leading to decreased circulating volume. While third spacing can contribute to hypovolemic shock, it is not specific to obstructive shock.

B. Cardiomyopathy: Cardiomyopathy is a condition characterized by abnormalities in the heart muscle structure and function. While cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure, it is not directly associated with obstructive shock.

C. Cardiac tamponade: Cardiac tamponade occurs when fluid accumulates in the pericardial sac, compressing the heart and impairing its ability to fill properly. This condition can lead to obstructive shock due to decreased cardiac output. Signs and symptoms include hypotension, muffled heart sounds, distended neck veins, and pulsus paradoxus.

D. Ruptured aneurysm: A ruptured aneurysm can lead to hypovolemic shock due to acute blood loss. While it can cause significant hemodynamic instability, it is not a characteristic diagnosis of obstructive shock.

A. "l can't eat as much as I used to." B. "l get dizzy when I nod my head." C. "l wash my hair every other day." D. "I walk my dog at least twice a day."

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. "I can't eat as much as I used to": While changes in eating habits may be related to various factors, such as appetite changes or difficulty chewing/swallowing, this statement does not specifically indicate how hearing loss affects the client's ability to perform ADLs.

B. "I get dizzy when I nod my head": This statement suggests that the client is experiencing dizziness, which could be related to hearing loss affecting their sense of balance. Dizziness can significantly impact the client's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) safely, such as walking, cooking, or bathing, as it increases the risk of falls and injury.

C. "I wash my hair every other day": This statement describes a personal hygiene habit and does not directly indicate how hearing loss affects the client's ability to perform ADLs.

D. "I walk my dog at least twice a day": This statement describes an activity the client engages in and does not directly indicate how hearing loss affects the client's ability to perform ADLs. Walking a dog does not necessarily require hearing ability, as it primarily involves physical movement and visual observation.

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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

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Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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