A nurse is providing care for a client following a cardiac arrest due to pulseless electrical activity (PEA). Which of the following alterations are causes of PEA? (Select All that Apply.)
Hypertension
Hypovolemia
Hypoxia
Hyperkalemia
Hypernatremia
Hyperthermia
Correct Answer : B,C,D
Pulseless electrical activity (PEA) refers to a situation in which an electrocardiogram (ECG) shows electrical activity in the heart, but there is no effective mechanical activity and no palpable pulse. PEA can result from various underlying conditions that impair cardiac function or compromise circulation.
A. Hypertension: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not typically a direct cause of PEA. While uncontrolled hypertension can contribute to cardiovascular disease and increase the risk of cardiac events such as myocardial infarction, it is not a direct cause of PEA.
B. Hypovolemia: Hypovolemia, or low blood volume, is a common cause of PEA. Reduced circulating blood volume leads to decreased preload and inadequate filling of the heart chambers, impairing cardiac output. This can result in ineffective cardiac contractions and the development of PEA.
C. Hypoxia: Hypoxia, or inadequate oxygenation of tissues, is a significant cause of PEA. Insufficient oxygen delivery to the myocardium impairs cardiac function and can lead to ineffective cardiac contractions. Without adequate oxygenation, the heart is unable to generate sufficient mechanical force to maintain circulation, resulting in PEA.
D. Hyperkalemia: Hyperkalemia, or elevated levels of potassium in the blood, can cause PEA by disrupting cardiac electrical activity. Excessive potassium ions in the extracellular fluid alter the normal myocardial action potential, leading to cardiac conduction abnormalities and potential arrhythmias, including PEA.
E. Hypernatremia: Hypernatremia, or elevated levels of sodium in the blood, is not typically a direct cause of PEA. While severe hypernatremia can lead to neurological symptoms and dehydration, it does not directly impair cardiac electrical activity or mechanical function to the extent that it causes PEA.
F. Hyperthermia: Hyperthermia, or elevated body temperature, is not typically a direct cause of PEA. While extreme hyperthermia can lead to cardiovascular complications such as heat stroke, it is not a common cause of PEA unless it is associated with severe systemic metabolic derangements.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
All of the following should be included in the teaching:
A. Living a sedentary lifestyle: Sedentary behavior, characterized by physical inactivity, is a risk factor for various cardiovascular conditions, including atrial fibrillation. Regular exercise is important for maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of atrial fibrillation.
B. Family history of atrial fibrillation: A family history of atrial fibrillation increases an individual's risk of developing the condition. Genetic factors play a role in predisposing individuals to atrial fibrillation, and having a close relative with the condition can elevate one's risk.
C. History of thyroid disease: Thyroid disorders, particularly hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), are associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. Thyroid hormones influence heart rate and rhythm, and imbalances can predispose individuals to atrial fibrillation.
D. Recent influenza infection: Infections, particularly respiratory infections such as influenza, can trigger episodes of atrial fibrillation in susceptible individuals. The inflammatory response and physiological stress associated with infections can disrupt normal heart rhythm and precipitate atrial fibrillation episodes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints. Some research suggests a possible link between autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and Meniere's disease. Autoimmune conditions can affect the inner ear, leading to vestibular dysfunction and contributing to the development of Meniere's disease.
B. Bacterial pneumonia: Bacterial pneumonia is a respiratory infection caused by bacterial pathogens. There is no direct association between bacterial pneumonia and an increased risk of developing Meniere's disease. Meniere's disease primarily affects the inner ear and is not related to respiratory infections.
C. Macular degeneration: Macular degeneration is a degenerative eye disease that affects the central portion of the retina. There is no known association between macular degeneration and an increased risk of developing Meniere's disease. These conditions affect different parts of the body and are not related in terms of etiology or risk factors.
D. Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by loss of bone density, leading to an increased risk of fractures. There is no direct association between osteoporosis and an increased risk of developing Meniere's disease. These conditions affect different systems in the body and are not known to be related.
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